True Religion names new CMO

U.S denim brand True Religion announced on Tuesday the appointment of Kristen D’Arcy as chief marketing officer. 

In the new role, D’Arcy will report to chief executive officer Michael Buckley. In addition to driving new customers to the True Religion brand, D’Arcy will be responsible for all aspects of marketing, including content creation, creative, brand, public relations, influencers, social media, partnerships, and philanthropy.

D’Arcy has nearly 20 years of marketing and e-commerce experience at fashion, specialty retail, and beauty brands as well as on the agency side of the business. 

She began her career on the agency side of business and worked on major accounts for Tribal DDB Worldwide and R/GA. Following that, she worked as senior director of marketing for Ralph Lauren, before moving on to be senior vice president of e-commerce and digital media at Oscar de la Renta. From here, she joined Coty Inc., where she rose to become global head of content and innovation.

She then joined American Eagle Outfitters, leaving as vice president, integrated marketing and media to become chief marketing officer for Pacific Sunwear. She most recently served as CMO for Homedics.

“Kristen is the ideal candidate to fill this critical role,” said Buckley.

“She has a proven track record of creating business growth, fostering brand love, and managing high-performing teams. Her vast experience with top retail brands including Pacific Sun, Ralph Lauren, Coty, and Oscar de la Renta brings an important new layer of expertise to True Religion’s senior leadership team.”

D’Arcy’s appointment comes several months after the American apparel brand announced its expansion into China, with plans to open 65 freestanding stores and shop-in-shops in the market by 2026. Most recently, True Religion also revealed the appointment of Jim Kushner as executive vice president, North America wholesale sales, in late May.