In a shocking turn of events, British fashion house Burberry has appointed Stella King, Chief China Business Officer of rival Moncler, to its board as a Non-Executive Director. The revelation is made amid the ongoing unconfirmed speculations around the rival company considering a takeover bid for Burberry.
King, a veteran of the luxury market with extensive experience in Asia, is expected to join Burberry’s board in April 2025. The appointment coincides with Burberry’s efforts to revamp its leadership and performance. The company recently replaced its CEO and has seen its share price plummet due to declining sales.
In 2011, King was appointed as Moncler’s President of Asia Pacific and later promoted in 2022 as their chief business officer. Prior to this, she was the President of Asia Pacific for Sergio Rossi and has also worked with Lane Crawford.
Burberry is hoping to leverage King’s expertise in the crucial Chinese market, a key battleground for luxury brands. King’s deep understanding of Asian consumers could be instrumental in reviving Burberry’s fortunes.
The news of King’s appointment sent a ripple through the industry, particularly since it follows rumours of a potential Moncler takeover. While both companies have denied these whispers, the timing has sparked speculation.
Burberry has undergone significant changes in its employee structure with the retirement of Fabiola Arredondo and Antoine de Saint-Affrique from its board as Non-Executive Directors in July 2025.
Additionally, the company has also replaced its CEO Jonathan Akeroyd with Joshua Schulman. With over three-decade-long experience, Schulman brings experience and expertise from the fashion Industry. Schulman holds a diverse work portfolio with experience in brands like Coach, Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo. The company has also announced the return of Paul Price to an upgraded position of Chief Product Merchandising and Planning Officer.