2nd January 2013
New year brings change to FITCH North America
After several years of exceptional growth, we’re pleased to announce some changes to the North American management team, effective January 1, 2013.
Stephen Jay becomes Managing Director, North America. In his new role, Stephen will lead the firm through its next stage of growth, inspiring the bold thinking and innovation that helps FITCH’s clients stay ahead of consumers and competitors. Stephen has more than 15 years of experience in retail consulting, brand strategy, shopper insights and innovation, as well as broad experience with agency management. As Strategy Director for North America, he established a robust insights and strategy group, directing successful engagements with retailers, restaurants, and consumer packaged goods companies. He recently collaborated with a global team to produce FITCH’s Joy of Shopping study, resulting in new perspectives on shopper mindstates and the future of the store.
Vicky Leavitt moves to the newly created position of Executive Vice President, Mergers & Acquisitions. With past M&A experience in the US and abroad, Vicky will help FITCH scale its skills and geographies through strategic growth. Serving for the last three years as Managing Director of North America, she grew the FITCH US business in three consecutive years, established cross-functional teams, and extended relationships with blue-chip clients to raise significantly the firm’s profile across North America. In the past year, FITCH has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named the top ‘Design Firm of the Year’ by DDI Magazine.
Larry Stewart, AIA, becomes Managing Director, FITCH Architecture. In his role as General Manager, Larry delivered dramatic revenue growth, expanded the skills of the practice and enhanced the firm’s integrated design and architecture offer. He has more than 30 years of experience in leadership positions on both the consulting and client sides of the business, and has amassed significant expertise in the grocery, consumer electronics, and big box retail sectors.
Christian Davies, Executive Creative Director, Americas has been asked to take on additional management responsibilities as part of a new Executive Team, working with Stephen Jay and Larry Stewart. This team will enhance the seamless offer to FITCH’s clients and support greater collaboration across the firm’s design and architecture expertise.
“We have assembled the talent to lead our North American studios into the future,” said Lois Jacobs, CEO of FITCH. “This new management team is perfectly suited to support growth amongst our current clients and create a stronger enterprise for FITCH globally.”
FITCH’s latest design and architecture project, developing a next-generation prototype for Buffalo Wild Wings, was unveiled in December. The new identity and environment have a bold, masculine attitude and are designed to stand beside national sports teams and sports products. Inspired by the stadium experience, the new restaurant captures the energy of the game to create the ultimate social experience for fans.