Naked Wines Assigns New Chief Amid Struggle to Stay Afloat

Naked Wines, an online wine retailer launched in the United Kingdom in 2008, has appointed a new CEO. On Monday, Feb. 5, Rodrigo Maza was named CEO designate, replacing Nick Devlin, who suddenly quit in November last year.

According to Reuters, Maza joined Naked Wines only last year but has extensive work experience in the alcoholic drinks industry. The 40-year-old worked for Anheuser-Busch InBev for over 10 years before joining the company.

Fight to Stay in the Business

The former CEO stepped down late last year amid weak sales. Thus, Maza is expected to drive more profits to overcome the crisis and survive.

The new leader is expected to work alongside Naked Wine’s chairman, Rowan Gormley, for the next few months. After this critical period, the company will decide if Maza may assume the role permanently.

Other Leadership Change at Naked Wines

Naked Wines also appointed Emma Kamel, the new general manager of the brand’s U.K. business unit. She will replace Maza, who has been promoted to the CEO post.

Before her new appointment, Kamel joined the company six years ago and has recently been serving as the chief operating officer in the U.K.

“We are delighted to welcome Maza as CEO Designate,” Naked Wine’s executive chairman, Rowan Gormley, said in a press release. “In his short time with us, he has proven his ability to energize his team to get Naked back on the growth path, and his previous experience has a compelling combination of entrepreneurial startups and big company best practices, both of which we are going to need.”

On his appointment, the new chief, Rodrigo Maza, said, “I am honored and excited to accept the role of CEO Designate at Naked Wines. The value that Naked delivers to its customers and winemakers is clear and provides a solid foundation to build on. I look forward to working with the team across Naked and getting this amazing company to achieve its full potential.”

Photo by: Naked Wines Website