Ravensden director Michael Papé, who takes over as chairman of The GA in June, made an historic decision when he asked National Trust stationery buyer and industry consultant Henri Davis to become his deputy chairman.
It means that when Michael ends his term in 2016, Henri will succeed him as the first-ever retailer chairman of The GA.
Michael commented: “I’m delighted that Henri has agreed to become my vice chairman. She is a highly respected figure in the retail industry and will bring a new perspective to the work of The GA.”
Henri has been the stationery buyer for the National Trust for a number of years and also runs her own retail consultancy. She entered retailing as a graduate trainee with Habitat; worked for George Davies at Next in the company’s interiors and jewellery divisions and spent 13 years at WH Smith, which helped establish her position as a stationery expert.
Henri said of her appointment as GA vice chairman: “I was absolutely blown away when Michael asked me if I would take on the role. It is a huge responsibility given the challenging trading times we all face, but I am excited by the opportunity and feel very honoured to have been asked.”
