“My role is to make a difference, that is at the forefront of my mind, leaving a legacy and creating social impact.”

Asil Attar, is a dynamic and transformational leader with a wealth of expertise in fashion, brand, luxury, and retail business strategy on a global scale. With a diverse background, born in Iraq, raised in England, and educated in the United States, Attar has over 28 years of industry experience, holding senior executive positions in international companies across the UK, US, Europe, and the Middle East. Working with over 250 of the worlds most coveted brands and retail groups such as Harrods, GIII, Majid Al Futtaim, Damas Jewellery, Giorgio Armani Group, Coach, Karen Millen, Jigsaw, Whistles, DKNY, Juicy Couture, to name a few.

Throughout her tenure as CEO, she has successfully led multi-million-dollar businesses, delivering revenue growth, and achieving business objectives through change management, implementation, and the execution of visionary and innovative strategies. Attar's expertise is sought after by global groups, brands and businesses, as she provides invaluable advice on innovation, strategy, and business transformation.

As a multi-disciplinary expert, Attar has a comprehensive understanding of various aspects within the industry, including turnaround and restructuring, business development and transformation, financial business management, buying and merchandising, creative direction, brand and product development, new market entry, franchise and joint venture negotiations, omni-channel retail, brand equity relations, and talent management.

Known as ‘The Hybrid’ for her innate ability to understand and bridge the gap between the creative and commercial elements of a business, collaborating with renowned department stores and coveted brands and retail groups worldwide, such as Harrods, Giorgio Armani Group, Coach, Karen Millen, Jigsaw, Whistles, DKNY, Juicy Couture, and more.

Attar's decision-making skills, exceptional communication abilities, and global business outlook have positioned her as a leader in the industry. Her work has garnered her recognition as the best in class and a subject matter expert. Moreover, she firmly believes in the importance of people as the most valuable asset in any organization.  She has achieved several significant milestones, including being the first female CEO for three prominent Middle Eastern groups, most recently serving as the CEO for Damas Jewellery, the first female CEO in over 100 years.

Beyond her achievements in the business world, Attar is an ambassador for women empowerment, inspiring women of all ages to reach their potential and accomplish their goals. She invests in the future of fashion by supporting emerging designers, coaching, mentoring, and fostering their talent. Attar has been honored with numerous accolades and recognition, including being named one of the top 100 most influential Arab women by Forbes ME in and one of the top 200 most powerful Arab women and recognition as one of the top 100 powerful women by Arabian Business.

Known for her ability to build relationships with an extensive global network, Attar has served as a chairwoman, board advisor, keynote speaker, moderator, panelist, and judge in leading retail conferences, captivating audiences with her passion for the industry. Attar's philosophy for success centers around engaging teams and driving performance through respect, ethics, and values.