Ewan Venters: Executive and Former CEO of Fortnum & Mason — A Leader in Luxury Retail and Art
Discover how Ewan Venters revolutionized the retail world and led one of the most iconic British brands to new heights, blending tradition with innovation in the worlds of luxury and contemporary art.
Introduction
Ewan Venters, a renowned business executive and former CEO of Fortnum & Mason, has become one of the most influential figures in the luxury retail sector. With a career spanning across multiple high-profile brands, he has earned recognition for his ability to transform and modernize heritage companies while retaining their essence. His journey reflects a blend of innovation, passion for culture, and a profound understanding of business strategies. This article explores his life, career achievements, and lasting impact on both luxury retail and the art world.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Ewan Andrew Venters |
| Date of Birth | August 1972 |
| Age | 53 years (as of 2026) |
| Profession | Executive, Business Leader |
| Known For | Former CEO of Fortnum & Mason, Art Leader |
| Notable Achievements | Modernized Fortnum & Mason, Expanded Art Leadership at Hauser & Wirth |
| Awards | OBE (2024), Innovator of the Year (2014) |
| Current Role | Executive Chairman at Paul Smith |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Dunfermline, Scotland, in August 1972, Ewan Venters’ path to success began at an early age. Raised in a family where hard work and cultural appreciation were core values, Venters showed an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. After completing his early education, he embarked on a career that combined his love for business with a keen understanding of consumer behavior. Starting as a management trainee at Sainsbury’s, he honed his skills in logistics and buying, setting the stage for his future in high-end retail.
His subsequent move to Selfridges saw him take on increasingly important roles, including overseeing its food and restaurant divisions. This experience was pivotal in shaping Venters’ vision of blending traditional luxury with innovative retail strategies. He quickly became known for his ability to navigate both the operational and cultural challenges that come with running a renowned brand.
Transforming Fortnum & Mason: A Game-Changer
In 2012, Venters was appointed the CEO of Fortnum & Mason, the iconic British retailer. Under his leadership, the company entered a new era of growth. Venters was faced with the challenge of modernizing a centuries-old institution, while preserving its rich heritage and maintaining its reputation as the go-to destination for luxury food and fine goods.
One of Venters’ first major moves was to revitalize the brand’s product offerings. He expanded Fortnum & Mason’s portfolio to include new culinary experiences, modernized its retail spaces, and spearheaded initiatives that appealed to a more diverse, younger audience. He understood that while the brand’s history was its strength, it needed to evolve with the times.
Venters also led the expansion of Fortnum & Mason internationally, opening new stores in Dubai and Heathrow Airport, further cementing the brand’s global reach. This global expansion strategy allowed Fortnum & Mason to appeal to both local and international customers, driving sales and enhancing brand visibility.
Leadership at Hauser & Wirth: Bridging Art and Business
In 2021, Venters took on a new challenge as the global CEO of Hauser & Wirth, a leading contemporary art gallery. With his vast business experience, Venters applied his leadership to one of the most prestigious art galleries in the world.
His role at Hauser & Wirth was different from his retail leadership but shared a common thread—creating a global strategy that bridged culture, commerce, and community. His ability to navigate the art world, an industry often regarded as insular, while making it accessible to a broader audience, was key to his success. Venters’ leadership at Hauser & Wirth emphasized sustainability, innovation, and the development of global partnerships with artists, curators, and institutions.
From Fortnum & Mason to Paul Smith: A New Chapter
In 2025, Venters transitioned to Executive Chairman at Paul Smith, a renowned British fashion house. Venters’ appointment marked a new chapter in his career, one that would see him applying his expertise in luxury retail to a new brand. Paul Smith, with its rich British heritage and global recognition, was the perfect brand for Venters to continue his legacy of blending tradition with innovation.
Paul Smith has long been associated with quirky designs and high-quality tailoring. Under Venters’ leadership, the brand is expected to undergo further transformation as he aims to expand its global footprint and reach a new generation of customers. His strategic vision for the brand aligns with his previous work at Fortnum & Mason, focusing on creating unique, engaging experiences for customers, both online and in-store.
Venters’ Legacy: A Lasting Impact on Luxury Retail
Ewan Venters’ impact on the luxury retail and art industries is undeniable. His ability to modernize a brand without sacrificing its essence has earned him respect as one of the leading figures in the business world. At Fortnum & Mason, he brought innovation to a company rooted in tradition, turning it into a globally recognized, modern luxury brand. His role in the art world, with Hauser & Wirth, showcased his versatility and deep understanding of both business and culture.
His legacy also includes his role in shaping Paul Smith’s future, where he is expected to continue pushing the boundaries of fashion and retail. Whether in food, fashion, or art, Ewan Venters has proven to be a visionary who understands how to merge business acumen with creative spirit, ensuring that brands continue to thrive in an ever-changing marketplace.
Conclusion
Ewan Venters’ journey through the worlds of luxury retail and contemporary art has solidified his position as one of the most influential executives of his generation. From modernizing Fortnum & Mason to expanding the influence of Hauser & Wirth, Venters’ approach has always been rooted in a deep understanding of culture, commerce, and innovation. His transition to Paul Smith signals yet another chapter in his illustrious career, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the luxury and fashion industries.
FAQs about Ewan Venters
1. What was Ewan Venters’ role at Fortnum & Mason?
Ewan Venters served as the CEO of Fortnum & Mason from 2012 until 2021, leading the company through a period of modern expansion while maintaining its luxurious heritage.
2. Where is Ewan Venters working now?
Since 2025, Ewan Venters has been the Executive Chairman of Paul Smith Ltd., focusing on expanding the brand’s global presence.
3. How did Ewan Venters change Fortnum & Mason?
Venters revitalized Fortnum & Mason by modernizing its offerings, expanding its retail spaces, and leading international growth. He successfully combined tradition with innovation, appealing to a younger audience and driving global recognition.
4. What is Venters’ approach to leadership?
Venters is known for his ability to blend heritage with innovation, ensuring brands evolve while maintaining their core values. His leadership is marked by global expansion, sustainability, and customer-centric strategies.
5. How did Venters contribute to the art world?
As CEO of Hauser & Wirth, Venters applied his business acumen to the contemporary art scene, expanding the gallery’s global influence and promoting sustainability in the art market.
