Annoushka appoints new chief executive

British fine jewellery brand Annoushka has appointed Zia Zareem-Slade, formerly chief creative officer of Hauser and Wirth, as its new CEO starting February 2024.

The news comes after Tim Hort, managing director who has worked with Annoushka and John Ayton, chairman, for over 25 years, will step down from his role later this year.

Zareem-Slade previously also worked as a customer experience director on the executive board for seven years at Fortnum and Mason where she led the brand and digital transformation. Prior to Fortnum’s Zareem-Slade was the head of online at Selfridges.

Zareem-Slade, said: “I am thrilled to embark on this journey as CEO of Annoushka. The prospect of enhancing the brand’s visibility and fostering its growth fills me with excitement. I am looking forward to working with Annoushka and the dedicated team to unlock the businesses full potential and usher in an exhilarating new chapter.”

Annoushka Ducas, MBE founder and creative director, added: “I am thrilled that Zia is joining the business and believe this marks a pivotal chapter in our journey. Her expertise in digital, brand, and customer experience will be invaluable as we steer Annoushka towards its future. We will make a fantastic team, and I am looking forward to focusing on my absolute passion, which is designing exceptional jewellery.”

Ayton MBE concluded: “Zia brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record as a strategic and creative leader. This evolution comes at an opportune moment, with the business currently experiencing robust sales, fuelled by the success of our recent Knuckle collection launch and our attainment of the prestigious Positive Luxury mark last year. Her exceptional credentials, coupled with her alignment with our vision, fill us with confidence that Annoushka will flourish under her leadership.”