Dr Martens Creative Director Darren Mckoy posted on LinkedIn that he was stepping down as creative director in a role he has held since 2022. Mckoy has worked for Dr Martens since the mid-2010s.
The Dr Martens brand, headquartered in the UK, has remained iconic for over 60 years. Although most known for its footwear, the company also makes a range of accessories, including clothing and bags. The footwear is distinguished by its air-cushioned sole, upper shape, welted construction, and yellow stitching.
In his LinkedIn post, Mckoy gave “a heartfelt thank you” to the company “for an incredible decade.” He said he joined the business 10 years ago this week “when it was ready to take bold risks. With an amazing set of passionate people—both long-standing and new—true brand ambassadors who shared an unwavering belief in its potential, we helped transform the business from a circa £136m company to a £1bn powerhouse.”
Mckoy added that the “journey has been nothing short of extraordinary and life-changing. Witnessing that growth and having the privilege to shape it as product director and then creative director has been an unforgettable and humbling experience”. However, “after much reflection, I made the decision early last year to step away and embrace new opportunities and creative challenges. It wasn’t an easy choice, as you can imagine, but I feel now is the right time to close this amazing chapter and start writing the next”.
Dr Martens announced that Mckoy was promoted to creative director in spring 2022, although he had held the role for several months, timed when the company newly arrived on the London Stock Exchange and with positive earnings results.
Mckoy’s move comes as the company sales have declined and it prepares for new leadership. Ije Nwokorie is set to take the CEO position following the exit of former CEO Kenny Wilson, who said he would step down at the end of 2024. Nwokorie was most recently Dr. Martens’ chief brand officer. See SGB Media coverage below.
Images courtesy Dr Martens
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