Olivier de Mendez Godiva WEB

Source: Godiva 

De Mendez has over 25 years’ experience in retail, food and beverage, customer service and leadership

Godiva has appointed Olivier de Mendez as its new president for the UK, Middle East, North Africa and Turkey.

De Mendez will lead the premium chocolate brand’s expansion, and be responsible for adding new product and categories, accelerating distribution channels, entering new markets, and building on the Godiva cafés already present throughout the four regions.

He has more than 25 years’ experience in retail, food and beverage, customer service and leadership, driving businesses to accelerate expansion, defining brand strategy and ensuring operational excellence.

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His roles include country manager, France for Starbucks, and he was most recently managing director, France and international of Optical Discount. Godiva said de Mendez played an “integral role” in growing the optical retailer by driving innovation and making its products more accessible to consumers while retaining the business’ prestige.

He joins the premium chocolate brand effective immediately.

His appointment comes as Godiva looks to expand fivefold over the next six years.