Global fashion retailer H&M has promoted Laura Pietrantonio to its new head of marketing and communications for Australia and New Zealand.
Pietrantonio harnesses 20 years of experience in marketing, with her most recent position as head of PR and communications for AU/NZ. As a key member of the AU/NZ senior leadership team, Laura will be responsible for all marketing and communications activities including, media and customer insights, brand and content, PR and internal communications activities.
“As we enter a new era at H&M and elevate our customer experience, I’m excited by the strategic vision Laura brings to this role and where she will lead our marketing and communications efforts,” AU/NZ country director Anna Baldwin said.
“Laura brings extensive experience in fashion and local market knowledge to the position and is a huge asset to the leadership team as we enter this next phase.”
Prior to H&M, Pietrantonio has worked in both agency and in-house roles, including with Australian fashion brand Camilla and bedding brand Koala, as well as Havaianas, EGPR and Amaysim.
She has held the role of head of PR and communications at H&M AU/NZ for the last 18 months.
“This year marks our 10th year in the Australian market, as we enter a new era with fashion and the customer at the forefront,” Pietrantonio said. “In my new role, I am passionate about elevating our brand experience and cementing our brand purpose of fashion and quality at the best price in a sustainable way, while connecting with our customer.”
In 2024, H&M will undertake the redevelopment of two stores in Melbourne - Werribee and Chadstone and will reopen in Charlestown in Newcastle on June 20.
The Charlestown store spans 1,522 square metres on one level and features custom fittings, open window displays and self-checkouts.
The kids’ department will also include a new dedicated play table for children.
“We are excited to be returning to Charlestown Square on 20th June and to offer our customers a shopping destination where fashion is at the forefront,” Baldwin said. “We are committed to providing our customers with a premium shopping environment which is evident in this store opening.”
Today, H&M has 35 store locations Australia wide, and nine stores across New Zealand.