Andrew Rosen relinquishes CEO role at Theory

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Mar 27, 2019

Andrew Rosen is stepping down as chief executive officer of Theory leaving Dinesh Tandon, currently Theory's Chief Operating Officer, to take the role of CEO, effective April 1. 

 
Tandon joined Theory in 2013 as CEO of the Greater China and Southeast Asia market, based in Hong Kong, where he oversaw aggressive business growth. He was appointed Theory's COO in 2017, where he took on the role at the company's global headquarters in New York City. 
 
Tandon will work closely with both Rosen, who remains as an advisor, and Theory Chairman Kazumi Yanai, to ensure a successful transition. His successor as chief operating officer is yet to be announced. 

Fast Retailing, which acquired Theory in 2009, said via the Japanese company's CEO, Tadashi Yanai, that Rosen has made "significant contributions" to the Theory brand.
 
"I am pleased to see this succession in leadership as Andrew begins a new phase of his career, and I am confident that Dinesh will build on his solid experience at Theory and demonstrate his capability in powerfully evolving the company's global business," said Yanai.

Rosen founded Theory in 1997. In addition to launching the fashion brand, Rosen is also the backer of several labels including Rag & Bone and Alice + Olivia. The change will see him enter into a mentor role, while freeing him up to "pursue other interests."
 
"This is an exciting time for Theory and for me personally. I am incredibly proud of having created this company, this brand and this culture. My new role will allow me to provide mentorship and advice to the team at Theory, and will also give me an opportunity to pursue other interests and passions within and beyond the industry. I am grateful to Mr. Yanai for the leadership and support he has shown to the company over the years," Rosen said in a news statement.
 
The Japanese company, Fast Retailing, owns brands such as Uniqlo, Comptoir Des Cotonniers, Princesse Tam Tam and PLST.