Natalie Massenet is being linked to a potential role at online marketplace Farfetch according to the Daily Mail’s financial pages. The Net-a-Porter founder resigned from the site she created in September 2015 following news of the company’s merger with by Yoox Group — a deal valued at around $1.57 billion.
Massenet, who is also chairman of the British Fashion Council, is said to be in discussions with the luxury e-commerce giant founded by Portuguese entrepreneur José Neves. The nature of any possible role has yet to be determined but is likely to be an advisory one.
Both Farfetch and Massenet have declined to comment on a possible appointment. When approached, the former told Footwear News, “Farfetch does not respond to rumors, so we won’t be providing a comment.” And on the latter, “We are not commenting on any speculative stories regarding Natalie’s involvement in any new or existing businesses.”
Massenet’s contract at Net-a-Porter had a 12-month noncompete clause that was activated following her departure. That period came to an end in September. Massenet has since launched her own advisory firm Imaginary Ventures.
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Farfetch, which itself acquired London boutique Browns in 2015, is also said to be preparing for a $1.25 billion IPO in 2017. This month the retail platform launched a collaborative project with Florence-based luxury footwear label Aquazzura. Four influential buyers and retailers, including Browns CEO Holli Rogers, each worked with creative director Edgardo Osorio to design their ideal shoe.
