VGC appoints former Nike and MR PORTER executive Dan Rookwood as Head of Brand
London, 2 January 2023
VGC Partners (VGC) today announces the appointment of former Nike and MR PORTER executive Dan Rookwood as Operating Partner and Head of Brand.
VGC invests in innovative consumer, media and tech brands spanning sectors Dan has worked across – luxury, health and wellness, sports and entertainment, content and talent.
In this new role, Dan will be looking at investment opportunities primarily through a brand lens. And he will use his global network and international experience to help VGC’s portfolio – which includes Kick Game and Percival – elevate all aspects of their branding and marketing.
A long-time advisor to VGC, Dan was previously Nike’s Global Senior Director of Editorial at their headquarters in Portland, Oregon. Prior to that, he led luxury fashion e-tailer MR PORTER in New York, working directly with brands to help them craft compelling content.
During his 20-year career, Dan has also consulted for a range or brands with deep cultural connectivity, from start-ups to scale-ups to leading brands such as EA Sports, Jordan and Tom Ford.
A multi award-winning journalist and editor who started out at The Guardian, Dan has worked at GQ and Esquire in New York, Men’s Health and Women’s Health in London, and Time Out in Sydney.
Parminder Basran, Founding Partner and CEO of VGC, said:
“I’ve known Dan for nearly two decades and in that time have seen his work in action – both up close with some of our existing portfolio companies, and on a global scale during his time at Nike and MR PORTER.“
“Part of what sets VGC apart is our commitment to supporting our companies operationally and helping them make connections globally. Having Dan as part of the team means we can give them world-class marketing and branding support, which will be transformational in their growth journeys.”
Dan Rookwood, VGC Operating Partner & Head of Brand, added:
“I’ve always been impressed with how VGC operates and I really warm to their nurturing, founder-first approach. It’s about more than money – it’s about the time, the mentorship, the hands-on support.
“Parminder and the team have a real eye for spotting the next big thing – and they back exciting brands that people love. I’m bringing an extensive creative network with me, and the experience of working at some of the world’s best companies so I can’t wait to help our founders take their ideas to the next level.”