H&M’s Surprise CEO Change Hits Shares as Chain’s Profit Lags

  • Helmersson departs immediately after four years in top job
  • Shares plunge as fast-fashion pioneer’s profit lags estimates
Daniel ErverSource: Hennes & Mauritz AB

(Bloomberg) — Hennes & Mauritz AB appointed Daniel Erver as chief executive officer, jarring investors with a surprise move after the Swedish fast-fashion group struggled to boost profitability under predecessor Helena Helmersson.

The 42-year-old Erver, a company veteran currently responsible for the H&M brand, is taking over immediately. Helmersson stepped down after four years as CEO with “mixed feelings,” she said Wednesday.