Pandora Hires New China Boss

RAPAPORT... Pandora has appointed Irving Holmes Wong as general manager of its greater China division as part of a push to grow its sales in the region."China is the world's largest jewelry market, and Pandora sees significant growth opportunities," the company said Friday. "As part of its [new] strategy, Pandora has set a long-term target to triple the Chinese business versus 2019 and laid out a two-phase plan to achieve the growth."Wong was most recently at beauty brand Avon, where he was managing director for Asia Pacific and general manager for China. He also held senior management positions at cosmetics firms Revlon and L'Or?(C)al and at spirits company Bacardi-Martini.With Wong at the helm, Pandora plans to make the brand more established in China. It also aims to present its products as collectible, affordable jewelry that enables self-expression, the company noted. "Irving is a senior executive who has successfully transformed and grown businesses in China and neighboring markets," said chief commercial officer Martino Pessina. "He is a strategic brand-builder and brings valuable turnaround and growth-acceleration experience that will help us strengthen our position in greater China and reach our...targets."Wong will join Pandora on April 7, overseeing mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau. He will report to Pessina.Image: Irving Holmes Wong. (Pandora)