Emma Simpson-Scott named CEO of Space NK

Space NK has named Emma Simpson-Scott as its new Chief Executive Officer. She will take on the role from 13 September, succeeding Andy Lightfoot who is stepping down after ten years at the helm.

Simpson-Scott is a veteran of the company, having served as its Chief Marketing Officer for the past seven-and-a-half years and worked at Space NK for over a decade in total. She brings more than twenty years of experience across luxury retail, brand marketing, and customer experience.

Leadership Transition

Kecia Steelman, President and CEO of Ulta Beauty which owns Space NK, endorsed the appointment. "Emma is a highly respected retail leader who brings deep customer insight, retail expertise and a passion for building exceptional teams," Steelman said in a statement. The company thanked outgoing CEO Andy Lightfoot for leading the business through a period of significant growth and transformation.

Steelman added her gratitude for Lightfoot's decade of service, noting his role in strengthening Space NK's market position and overseeing its transition into the Ulta Beauty family. The company statement did not reveal a reason for his departure.

New CEO's Vision

Emma Simpson-Scott described her appointment as an honour. She highlighted the passion and entrepreneurial spirit of the Space NK teams. "I have seen first-hand the passion, expertise and entrepreneurial spirit of our teams, which has been instrumental in evolving Space NK into the business it is today," she stated.

Looking ahead, Simpson-Scott expressed excitement for the future. She pointed to Space NK's relationships with innovative beauty brands as a key asset. The new CEO said she looks forward to driving continued innovation and growth alongside the company's teams and brand partners.

Senior Team Appointments

Space NK has also made other key appointments to its senior leadership team. Hannah Quy joins this month as Chief Financial Officer, overseeing Finance, Property and Distribution. Tiff Ruis joins from parent company Ulta Beauty to take the role of Senior Vice President of Retail and Ecommerce.

A company statement said these appointments reinforce Space NK's commitment to accelerating growth and investing in its people. The retailer aims to maintain its position as the leading curator of luxury beauty in the UK and Ireland.

The business, known for its curated selection of premium beauty products, operates under the ownership of Ulta Beauty. It recently opened a waitlist for its highly anticipated 2026 beauty advent calendar.