Footasylum CEO David Pujolar leaves as Aurelius appoints interim chief

Rochdale retailer Footasylum is looking for a new chief executive after David Pujolar left the business this week.

Pujolar joined Footasylum in 2024 from European fashion retailer AW LAB, having previously held senior roles at adidas, Tommy Hilfiger and Foot Locker.

In a statement he said: “Thank you Footasylum, for the opportunity to lead such a talented group. I’m grateful for your trust, support, passion, and the lessons we shared.”

“Wishing the team continued success and all the best for the future. Defy Ordinary. Shake, shock and rock.”

Owner Aurelius Group has brought in Stephan Rahmede as interim boss. Munich-based Rahmede is vice president of Aurelius WaterRise, its operations advisory team, which was set up in 2005 to “drive portfolio company transformation.”

Rahmede said: “The Footasylum journey began 20 years ago and has been a story of boldness, disruption, and a unique understanding of its customers.”

“While many retailers have stood still in recent years, Footasylum has redefined what it means to be an athleisure retailer, creating shopping experiences that go far beyond the norm.”

“We are lucky to have an extremely talented and dedicated team, driven by the vision to lead the industry.”

“But there is more to come, and I am determined to support the next phase of growth and to strengthen the management team further, including a new CEO.”

At the end of 2025 Footasylum signed its first big overseas expansion deal, with Apparel Group, the global fashion and lifestyle retailer.