Rowan Gormley, who founded the online wine retailer in 2008, has served as non-executive chair and as a company director since November 2023 after he returned to business following more than three years away.
Senior independent director Deidre Runnette will assume the role of non-executive chair on an interim basis until a successor to Gormley is appointed.
Commenting on the departure of Gormley, Runnette said: “On behalf of the board I wish to thank Rowan for his commitment and contribution to Naked over many years.
“His leadership ensured Naked emerged from a challenging period in a healthy position and with a new and strengthened management team. We wish him every success for the future.”
Naked Wines CEO Rodrigo Maza added: “Rowan’s knowledge and experience of the wine industry, and Naked as a business, has been instrumental in helping us stabilize the business and position ourselves for growth.
“We are thankful for his leadership and guidance and are committed to realizing the potential of the amazing opportunity ahead.”
The news follows the launch of the firm’s new strategic plan earlier this month, which was introduced less than a year since Naked Wines appointed Interpath Advisory as a debt advisor.
During the 52 weeks ending 1 April 2024, the firm posted a £16.3 million loss before tax and saw year-on-year revenue decline by 13%.
However, Naked Wines’ share price has rebounded in recent weeks and is up to 88.8p at the time of writing.
The strategic plan was created after a comprehensive performance and financial review, and includes the goal to reach £10 million to £15 million in annual EBITDA, supported by £23 million in newly identified annualised cost savings.
Explaining the rationale behind the plan, Maza said: “A year ago, I made a commitment to deliver real value to all our stakeholders. We now have a powerful plan that fulfils that promise, as we deliver on FY25 guidance even in the face of challenging market conditions.
“We will look to commence distributions, unlock capital from surplus inventory, double down on serving our most valuable members, and transform how we attract and retain new customers.
“I am deeply grateful to the team for their commitment and relentless hard work. Together, we are turning challenges into opportunities and paving the way for a bright future.”