The industry’s worst-kept secret can now be officially confirmed: Kate Hodgson-Egan has been recruited by Lovehoney as its new international sales manager for the US and UK. In her new role, Hodgson-Egan will be in charge of the US and UK wholesale side of Lovehoney and will also support the Lovehoney Trade team. She will work alongside Jim Primrose, Lovehoney’s international sales manager for Rest of the World.
Primrose said: “I am absolutely delighted to welcome Kate to the Lovehoney Trade team. It is further evidence of our commitment and investment in our global Trade business and customers. Kate brings with her a wealth of knowledge from her 14 years of experience within the industry. She will be supporting the long term development of the US territories alongside Sabrina Earnshaw, as well as taking charge of the development of the UK adult business. The whole team are extremely excited by Kate’s appointment, and look forward to working closely with her.”
Kate is already well known in the industry, having previously held the position of customer relations director at wholesaler ABS Holdings, where she managed the wholesale sales department. Her last day with ABS was June 13th at the ETO Show. She said of her new role: “I have worked with the Lovehoney team for 14 years as a supplier and customer. I have seen their growth and direction, and wanted to be a part of it. I look forward to working alongside Jim and the rest of the team to help develop our existing business as well as new global business channels. Lovehoney is a great company and I already feel part of the brilliant team.”
When her departure from the company was announced last month, ABS Holdings said: “Kate has been at the heart of helping ABS grow into the success it is today. Kate has been an amazing addition to our team over the years and we’ve been proud to have her support us at trade shows like ETO and eroFame. Kate has an exceptional knowledge of the industry and we will miss her passion and her unique input.”
ABS CEO Tim Hemming added: “We will all miss her enthusiasm and drive. We wish her all the success in her new role.”
One of Hodgson-Egan’s first activities in her new position will be attending the ANME Founders Show in LA this weekend, where Lovehoney will be introducing two new Fifty Shades collections. For more information about Lovehoney’s trade side, visit www.lovehoneytrade.com or email [email protected]
