US. Nicholas Ratut has been appointed executive vice-president and chief operating officer of ZIRH International, a division of Shiseido International Corporation.
Ratut had been working as a consultant to ZIRH, the fastest-growing men’s skincare line in the US, where it ranks number three. Since August 2001, the new-generation brand has opened over 40 international markets, including key travel retail accounts.
Ratut is one of the cosmetics industry’s most experienced and knowledgeable travel retail and international executives. Before ZIRH, he was executive vice-president and chief operating officer at Adipar, the US distribution subsidiary of Escada Beaute before its acquisition by Wella.
Rapid expansion plans for the ZIRH group include the worldwide launch at the end of 2003 of the fcuk (French Connection United Kingdom) prestige fragrances and grooming lines and the introduction of the John Varvatos men’s fragrance in 2004.
In his new position, Ratut will report to Brian Robinson, president and ceo of Zirh International.
