Knightsbridge, England, United Kingdom, November 2025 — Harrods has promoted Mark Blundell to the role of Chief Retail Officer, marking a significant milestone in his eight-year journey with the world-renowned luxury retailer. In this position, he will lead the organisation’s physical retail operations and customer experience strategy, ensuring Harrods continues to deliver the exceptional service and standards synonymous with its global luxury reputation.
Before this promotion, Blundell served as Retail Director at Harrods, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the store’s operational excellence, customer experience strategy, and frontline leadership development. His tenure included leading high-impact retail transformation initiatives and strengthening Harrods’ position as a luxury destination known for immersive and personalised service.
Prior to this role, he served as Head of Retail Projects & Retail Services at Harrods, overseeing retail systems, customer experience enhancements, and large-scale operational improvement programmes. His contributions were instrumental in modernising operational frameworks that enhanced in-store service and innovation.
Before joining Harrods, Blundell spent more than five years with John Lewis & Partners in senior retail leadership positions, including Head of Branch roles in Liverpool and Trafford. During this time, he led major store operations, guided high-performing teams, and delivered noteworthy improvements across performance metrics, customer experience, omnichannel growth, and cultural transformation. His leadership was recognised through divisional and regional retail awards.
Earlier in his career, Blundell held senior operational and change leadership roles with Waitrose & Partners, where he led teams across multiple locations and drove consistent improvements in sales, operational performance, partner engagement, and customer experience. He began his professional journey on the Graduate Scheme at Barclays, followed by early management positions across general insurance and retail banking operations.
About Harrods
Founded in 1834 and currently owned by Qatar Holding Authority, Harrods is one of the world’s most iconic luxury destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually. With a heritage built on craftsmanship, curation, and exceptional service, Harrods positions itself as a global authority in luxury goods and personalised client experience.
Harrods continues to evolve as a house of maisons — a modern atelier and destination for the world’s finest products and experiences. Its people remain at the heart of this legacy, shaping memorable moments for customers from around the world.
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