Graham Allen, former CEO of technical clothing company Henri-Lloyd has died at the age of 59.
Graham joined the company in 1991 as marketing manager, recruited by company founder Henri Strzelecki.
Graham initially worked closely with Mr Henri’s sons Paul and Martin, who were impressed with his thoroughness and attention to detail, despite a lack of knowledge about boats and a desire to avoid going onto a boat if at all possible.
He transferred to fabric manufacturer Sympatex to increase his knowledge of fabric technology, returning to the UK several years’ later.
After spending time at a marketing agency working for Henri-Lloyd he returned to the company to take up the role of marketing director with responsibility for the retail division of Henri-Lloyd, the development of its footwear and clothing ranges.
International sponsorships
As part of the senior Henri-Lloyd team, Graham played a key role in the growth enjoyed by the brand as it was adopted into the mainstream fashion and celebrity world alongside high profile international sponsorships.
The new avenue required setting up international merchandising and mobile retail outlets – a multi-faceted and complicated role which Graham undertook with relish and delivered in an extremely efficient way.
In his role as commercial director, Graham was also instrumental in negotiating Henri-Lloyd’s sponsorship of Brawn GP, and the development of team and technical clothing for Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg for Mercedes GP Petronas.
Graham saw the company through challenging times when it went into administration in 2018 with the head office and main company functions moving to Sweden.
And when the company was sold to Monte Rosa Sport (MRS), Graham remained as Henri-Lloyd country manager in the UK.
Graham was so excited about the new ownership and bringing Henri-Lloyd back to greatness.
Knut Frostad
When the decision was made to move Henri-Lloyd’s head office back to the UK, Graham’s skills, knowledge and passion for the company were reflected in his appointment as CEO, working closely with the board and executive chairman Knut Frostad.
“Graham was so excited about the new ownership and bringing Henri-Lloyd back to greatness,” said Knut.
“He was a true gentleman and an encyclopaedia of the company. He greatly affected me with his passion, and I will be forever grateful for being able to tap into his vast knowledge.
“Even when Graham became more unwell his enthusiasm for the company never wavered, and he wanted to know what was happening in the company. He will be sorely missed by everyone and represents all that Henri-Lloyd stands for.”
In a tribute to Graham, Henri-Lloyd said he left long-lasting impressions on those he worked with.
“Although a tough task master, he embodied a ‘work hard, play hard’ ethos and is remembered for his over-riding passion, determination, ability to quickly adapt to change and for his problem-solving skills,” stated the tribute.
“Graham always had the ability to engage with and listen to those he worked with, and for many he became a trusted mentor and advisor.
Even if we haven’t always got along I have learnt so much from you, so thank you.
Graham Allen
“He will be remembered by many in the industry as always being generous with his time and support especially for those starting in their careers where his advice, thoughtfulness and friendship helped many grow in their own confidence and abilities.
“Often quoted as being ‘the best boss ever’, there are many who will say that it was a ‘privilege to have worked with him’.”
When his incurable cancer was diagnosed, Graham stepped back from his day-to-day role as CEO at Henri-Lloyd in order to spend his remaining time with his wider family.
And he took to LinkedIn announcing that he had been diagnosed with a Stage 4 incurable and hyper aggressive brain tumour with survival measured in weeks.
In his post he stated he had had a blessed and great life with no regrets.
And he thanked everyone he had worked with, from colleagues, customers, suppliers to journalists stating: “Even if we haven’t always got along I have learnt so much from you, so thank you.”
And with a wry sense of humour he added: “And yes I should of been more open minded and patient at times (so sorry).”
He concluded: “Thanks again everyone – until we meet again x.”
He leaves behind his wife, Donna, and his three sons, Ethan, Joe and Kyle.
