London, 5 August 2024 – Rapha, the leading cycling apparel and lifestyle brand, is delighted to announce that Fran Millar will become its new Chief Executive Officer from 23 September. Fran brings a unique experience and passion for cycling to Rapha and heralds a new era of growth and innovation for the brand.

“Fran Millar’s ​​career is a testament to his commitment to cycling and his ability to drive transformative change,” said Steuart Walton, co-founder of investment firm RZC, which acquired Rapha in 2017. “His extensive background in cycling includes prominent roles at Team Sky and Team INEOS, where he played a critical role in delivering seven Tour de France victories.”

Following his success in cycling, Millar was appointed CEO of Belstaff in 2020 and tasked with developing a transformation strategy for the iconic luxury lifestyle brand. Over the last three years he has improved financial performance, repositioned the brand, led cultural change and successfully implemented significant operational efficiencies.

“Rapha is one of the most iconic brands in sports and has huge potential for its next phase of growth,” Millar said.

“It has been a constant presence in my life and career, a brand I have always loved, referenced and returned to. This role brings together everything I am passionate about and I am honoured to lead Rapha into the next exciting chapter of its journey.”

“Fran’s appointment represents a significant milestone for Rapha,” said Rapha founder Simon Mottram. “Fran has been a friend of Rapha since 2006, when he helped us set up and run the Nocturne race series. He then introduced us to Dave Brailsford and Team Sky, culminating in our successful four-year partnership. Fran’s deep understanding of the cycling industry, combined with his proven track record of leading high-performance teams and brands, puts him in a unique position to lead Rapha into its next chapter.”

Career Highlights

● Founder and Creative Director, FACE Partnership (2000-2008): Fran founded FACE Partnership, which has become the UK’s leading cycling management agency, representing the best of British cycling talent and creating the successful Revolution track bike range. FACE developed the Smithfield Nocturne with Rapha and Condor Cycles in 2006 and ran the Nocturne Series for six years.

● Team Sky (2008-2018): Fran has been instrumental in the creation and operational success of Team Sky, holding roles from Project Manager to CEO. She played a key role in securing Sky’s sponsorship and oversaw the cultural programme that has delivered the team’s unprecedented success.

● INEOS Team (2018-2020): As CEO, Fran oversaw the transition from Team Sky to Team INEOS, ensuring seamless integration and continued dominance in professional cycling.

● INEOS 1:59 Challenge (2019): As Deputy CEO, Fran was the driving force behind Eliud Kipchoge’s historic sub-two-hour marathon and oversaw all aspects of this ambitious project.

● Belstaff (2020-Present): As CEO, Fran led a remarkable transformation of the iconic British brand by implementing ‘Mission Phoenix’ which led to significant financial gains.