European fashion outlets specialist Via Outlets has recruited Johan Caspar Bergenthal as chief operating officer (COO).
He will work alongside CEO Otto Ambagtsheer to accelerate Via Outlets’ growth strategy across its 11 premium fashion outlets.
Bergenthal brings almost 20 years’ experience of retail real estate, the last eight at pan-European shopping mall operator Klépierre, and will be responsible for day-to-day business operations.
Said Ambagtsheer: 'Johan brings a wealth of experience from his time as a senior executive at Europe’s second-largest listed retail real estate company, which will generate fresh insights into our business and 3R-Strategy of remodelling, remerchandising and remarketing.
'We are delivering strong performance this year, reflected in the sales success of our brand partners. Johan’s appointment sets the stage to continue this momentum and for Via Outlets to further expand its footprint across Europe.'
Bergenthal was managing director and head of territory at Klépierre with responsibility for its business in Germany, The Netherlands and Turkey, and a member of the group’s executive committee.
Bergenthal started his career at the German retail real estate developer ECE in 2004, with roles in leasing and architecture, before he moved to Corio to lead the German leasing team.
He was appointed as COO for the German market in 2015 following Klépierre’s acquisition of Corio and subesquently promoted to Head of Country, Germany in 2018.
Bergenthal holds an executive MBA degree from Kellogg/WHU and a degree in architecture from the HSBI University of Applied Sciences and Art, Bielefeld, Germany.
He is expected to start his position at Via Outlets in mid-October.
