Authentic Brands names former Tapestry exec new CFO

Authentic Brands Group announced on Thursday the appointment of Kevin Wills to the role of chief financial officer.

In his new role, Wills joins Authentic’s executive leadership team and will drive sustainable, long-term value through financial strategy and performance. He is based in the U.S. company’s New York headquarters and will report directly to founder, chairman and CEO, Jamie Salter.

Wills has nearly two decades of experience in financial leadership across the fashion, retail and consulting sectors. He most recently served as chief financial officer and member of the executive committee at Pilot Company, the largest operator of travel centers in North America operating under the Pilot and Flying J brands.

Prior to Pilot, Wills held the role of chief financial officer at some of the world’s most recognized luxury and retail companies, including Tapestry Inc., parent to Coach, Kate Spade and Stuart Weitzman, and Saks Inc., where he served in various financial leadership positions as part of a 16-year tenure. In addition, he was managing director and chief financial officer at global consulting firm AlixPartners.

“Kevin brings a strong track record of guiding strong financial growth across a broad range of public and private companies,” said Salter. “His diverse experience makes him uniquely qualified to support Authentic’s expansion and accelerate our brand-building playbook worldwide.”

The news follows Authentic’s raising of $500 million from growth-equity investor General Atlantic in late June, valuing the owner of fashion brands and celebrity rights at over $20 billion, according to a Bloomberg report.

In 2021, Authentic Brands filed for an initial public offering, before withdrawing its application last year at the beginning of a listing drought.