QVC Appoints Mike Fitzharris as the New Leader of QVC Japan

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Dec 17, 2015, 09:00 ET

WEST CHESTER, Pa., Dec. 17, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- QVC, the global leader in video and ecommerce retail, today announced that Mike Fitzharris has been appointed as the CEO and representative director of QVC Japan, effective December 15, 2015. Fitzharris will be responsible for overseeing QVC's operations and growth in Japan. He will report to Steve Hofmann, president of QVC International.

"Since its launch in 2001, QVC Japan has successfully developed and implemented strategies to become a leader in multimedia shopping, with a focus on providing great customer value and service," said Hofmann. "Mike has consistently demonstrated an ability to lead and inspire teams across cultures, and has the experience needed to drive customer loyalty, contribute to and execute enterprise strategy and build brand awareness."

Prior to joining QVC Japan, Fitzharris served as Chief Operating Officer of QVC UK after rejoining QVC in April 2012, with responsibility for Customer Fulfillment Services, which include contact center operations, supply chain functions, warehousing and business intelligence. Fitzharris began his QVC career in 1997, working across a number of areas before taking on the role of general manager of Operations Support.

"As QVC continues to expand globally, we are leveraging our worldwide talent and capabilities to drive collaboration and position the company for future growth," said QVC president and CEO Mike George. "Mike is adept at driving innovation to achieve strong business results. His knowledge of global markets and commitment to excellence will position QVC Japan for continued success."

John Thomas, who led QVC Japan since 2011 as the CEO and representative director, will remain as the chairman of the Board of Directors of QVC Japan. In addition, he has been appointed to serve as the vice chairman of CNR Mall, QVC's joint venture operations in China with China National Radio.

"Throughout his tenure, John has maintained a clear focus on developing strategies to maximize our long-term position in Japan and in building an engaged and aligned team throughout the organization," said Hofmann. "I am grateful to John for his tireless effort and countless contributions to the Japan business and will continue to rely on his expertise to drive our business forward as the chairman of QVC Japan."

Thomas has played a key role in QVC's global expansion for many years. He was the project leader for QVC's entry into the Italian market in 2009 and through the launch of QVC Italy in the 4^th quarter of 2010. He later led QVC's global business development efforts and was appointed chairman of QVC Japan. He assumed the position of CEO and representative director in 2011.

About QVC
QVC, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Interactive Corporation (NASDAQ: QVCA, QVCB), is the world's leading video and ecommerce retailer. QVC is committed to providing its customers with thousands of the most innovative and contemporary beauty, fashion, jewelry and home products. Its programming is distributed to approximately 350 million homes worldwide through operations in the U.S., Japan, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, France and a joint venture in China. Based in West Chester, Pa. and founded in 1986, QVC has evolved from a TV shopping company to a leading ecommerce and mobile commerce retailer. The company's website, QVC.com, is ranked among the top general merchant Internet sites. QVC, Q, and the Q Ribbon Logo are registered service marks of ER Marks, Inc.