Changing of the Guard

Barneys Hires New Creative Director

Dennis Freedman will succeed Simon Doonan.

Dennis Freedman, former creative director at W magazine, has been hired as the new creative director for luxury retailer Barneys, the company announced Monday. Freedman succeeds Simon Doonan, who will become “creative ambassador-at-large.” A press release described Doonan’s new position, saying he will “contribute to special window projects, will host special events with customers and media, and will serve as roving ambassador with links to all creative and communication areas including social media.” Freedman will be responsible for the brand’s overall creative direction, and will engage “various artists and designers” for the Barneys New York windows. The appointment is part of a series of departures and new hires since Mark Lee took over as CEO.