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The Houlden Group has announced Denise McLaughlin will step into the role of managing director, a move it said marks its “significant and well-supported leadership evolution”.
McLaughlin will head the next phase of the luxury jewellery membership organisation’s strategic evolution, working on refining its insight-led model, improving member support, reinforcing supplier partnerships and ensuring flexibility in a dynamic retail landscape.
McLaughlin has been with Houlden for more than 17 years, most recently as chief operations officer.
The group that she was on its senior leadership team during an important period in its development, wherein it reinforced its position and thereby delivered measurable value to independent jewellers.
Houlden said that throughout her tenure, McLaughlin was at the helm of its operational strength, supplier partner relationships and member engagement strategy.
It credited her with strengthening company infrastructure, enhancing its events portfolio and improving collaboration between members and supplier partners.
When it comes to workplace culture, the firm added she was central to promoting one of “collaboration, capability and shared purpose” that will continue to fuel success.
Commenting on her promotion, McLaughlin said: “I am incredibly proud to step into the role of Managing Director at such an exciting point in our evolution. Houlden has always been a powerful community built on passion – passion for excellence, innovation and helping our Members thrive – and it has been a privilege to be part of that journey.
“As we look ahead, our focus is clear: driving Member profitability, delivering strong ROI for our valued Supplier Partners and strengthening the resilience of Houlden in an everchanging luxury retail landscape. That means embracing newness, championing fresh thinking, harnessing the power of data and continuing to develop the talent within our exceptional team.”
She added: “I feel fortunate to have learned from some of the most respected leaders in our sector, and I am genuinely excited about what lies ahead. Together, we will move forward with confidence, unity, and a strong belief in what we can achieve as one community.”
The Houlden Board said: “Denise’s direction, commercial understanding and commitment to our Members and Supplier Partners make her the natural choice to lead Houlden into our next chapter. Her appointment reflects both her contribution over the past 15 years and our confidence in her vision for the future.”
