Gap Inc. appoints former Mattel executive Richard Dickson as President and CEO
Gap Inc, a global apparel company, has announced the appointment of Richard Dickson as their President and CEO, effective from August 22, 2023.
In his previous role as President and COO at Mattel, Richard played a pivotal role in reviving iconic brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price, leading a successful global corporate transformation and restoring the company's growth. His expertise reaffirmed Mattel's position as an industry thought leader. He was selected to the Gap Inc. Board of Directors in November last year.
Mayo A. Shattuck III, Independent Director of GAP said, “Richard has invaluable expertise in areas critical to the work Gap Inc. is doing to strengthen the company for the long term. And we are thrilled to have his visionary leadership as the company redefines the future potential of Gap Inc. and its renowned American fashion brands. On behalf of the Gap Inc. Board and management team, I want to thank Bobby Martin for serving as Interim CEO during this important time, and the teams who have moved quickly to simplify the company’s operating model, increase the speed and quality of decision-making, and restore its creative muscle – work that will pay back for years to come.”
Richard said, "Gap Inc. is a portfolio of iconic brands, known for having defined American style with bold thinking and making quality fashion accessible to millions. But it's the work ahead that excites me most - the chance to work hand-in-hand with the teams to evolve Gap Inc. for a new era. Under Bobby's leadership, the team has begun to truly reset the company for long-term success, establishing a new foundation that I'm eager to build on."
Bobby Martin, Chairman and Interim CEO of GAP Inc. said, “Gap Inc. has a rich heritage, with brands that have great meaning in people’s lives. Amidst a deliberate and thoughtful search process, it became clear that Richard is destined for this role at this moment. His experience as a proven transformational brand builder and belief in the power of inclusivity, make him a perfect fit for Gap Inc.”
As President and Chief Operating Officer at Mattel, Richard successfully led a diverse portfolio of global brands, overseeing innovation strategy, design and development, brand marketing, and franchise management. His effective brand-building approach, embodied in the Mattel Playbook, played a crucial role in driving growth for Mattel's power brands and accelerating the company's transformation.
Previously, Richard served as President and CEO of Branded Businesses for The Jones Group, where he spearheaded global design and development, including marketing, merchandising, wholesale, retail, and e-commerce. Moreover, his efforts revitalised outdated fashion labels and led to the acquisition and development of new brands. Additionally, he co-founded Gloss.com, the pioneering high-end cosmetics online retailer, and held executive positions at Bloomingdale's.