Kathmandu has appointed its first chief customer officer Eva Barrett, who has hit the ground running via a partnership with Uber.
Taking up the role, Barrett has returned to Australia after 15 years working in global brand roles for Fosters Group, Philips and most recently, as global head of brand communications and sports marketing for Adidas’ Heartbeat Sports division.
Kathmandu CEO Reuben Casey said that Barrett's appointment will allow the business to grow into a global brand.
"Eva’s experience and expertise will accelerate our transition from an Australasian retailer to a global brand and further strengthen our focus on customers.
"In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, customer centricity will be more important than ever, and to compete, brands will need to predict and respond to consumer expectations with more accuracy and efficiency than ever," he said.
Since joining the outdoor brand, Barrett has already announced a partnership with ride-sharing platform Uber, promising same-day delivery across the country - the first Australian apparel brand to do so.
The delivery services will enable customers to order products online by 3pm and have them delivered to their door that same day.
Speaking on the initiative, Barrett said that the partnership allows customers more flexibility during these times.
"Online delivery is an increasingly popular option for consumers as we continue to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, delivery with Uber allows us to provide same-day, contactless deliveries and ensure people can get the items they need when they need them.
"Our brick and mortar stores will continue to offer personalised experiences and expertise for customers, but same-day delivery via Uber gives Australian’s more flexibility, especially during these uncertain times.
"If there’s a cold snap and you urgently need a puffer jacket we’ll have you covered," she said.
Currently, delivery with Uber is available for customers in a 10-kilometre radius of the Blackburn, Frankston, Geelong, Melbourne CBD and Richmond stores in Victoria, with Kathmandu planning to roll the delivery option out nationally over the coming months.