Redbubble names new chief executive

Dean Blake

24th Nov 2020

Art marketplace Redbubble has announced Michael Ilczynski will take up the role of the business’ chief executive effective 27 January 2021.

Ilczynski formerly worked as CEO of employment site Seek, and will bring his years of experience turning that site into a global force to Redbubble.

“That track-record, including the successful development of his team, evolution of the product and scaling of the business, are the right combination to continue Redbubble’s transition from a niche to mainstream global consumer marketplace,” Redbubble chair Anne Ward said.

“Seek is one of the few companies in Australia to have been down this path before Redbubble, and we are delighted to be able to attract a proven, senior leader of Michael’s calibre to join Redbubble.”

Ilczynski said he is very thankful for having been given the opportunity, and that he sees opportunities to build on Redbubble’s three-sided marketplace offer.

Interim CEO and founder Martin Hosking said the appointment is the next milestone in Redbubble’s ambition to pursue the growing global e-commerce opportunity.

“As founder and as a director, like the rest of the board I was determined that our next CEO had the experience, skills and passion for growing our global community of independent artists and customers, plus the leadership track record and spark to inspire and develop our incredible global team,” Hosking said.

“Michael is that person.”

The search for a new CEO came about when former CEO Barry Newstead was ousted by the board in February, after it decided a change of leadership was necessary.