PAUL appoints new Marketing Director of UK & US operations


Leading French artisan bakery and patisserie group, PAUL, with sites in 35 countries across the world, has appointed Kathryn Pretzel-Shiels, Marketing Director of its UK and USA operations.

An international business leader and native American, Pretzel-Shiels has 30 years’ experience in creating and growing commercially powerful B2B and B2C customer relationships through precisely delivered marketing strategies, following many successful leadership roles at American Express.

Pretzel-Shiels has a track record of developing multi-cultural teams, encouraging growth, change and transformation through her creative and passionate approach to marketing. During her time with American Express, she earned a reputation for strong customer engagement, service excellence and people development.

In her role at PAUL, Pretzel-Shiels will lead the marketing strategy, focusing on PAUL’s core values, passion and commitment to a wide range of quality products including artisanal bread, cakes and pâtisserie.

Jean-Michel Orieux, CEO of PAUL UK, said, “We are delighted to have Kathryn on board at PAUL. Her extensive experience in the UK, EMEA and USA markets is invaluable to the development of our brand. Since PAUL launched the first Covent Garden site in 2000, the UK estate has grown to over 36 sites and Kathryn will be instrumental in our continued expansion across both the UK and USA.”

Kathryn Pretzel-Shiels commented, “PAUL embodies excellence in quality and with its remarkable growth across several markets, I am delighted to be taking on the role of Marketing Director to help further develop the brand in both the UK and USA. I’m looking forward to expanding on the traditions of PAUL and the timeless French way of life, building and strengthening relationships with our customers and developing brand awareness.”