Brennan Named to Sofa Club Leadership Team

Nadine Gruber • 27/07/2026 • 2 min read

Paul Brennan joins Sofa Club leadership team as managing director, bringing retail experience from Marks & Spencer and Marc Jacobs to the role.

Paul Brennan built his career in fashion, beginning as a trolley boy at Marks & Spencer and later holding senior positions at Marc Jacobs and Browns. He now leads Sofa Club as managing director, calling the move both unexpected and a natural progression.

From weekend work to executive roles

Brennan’s retail career started at an M&S store in Merry Hill, where he worked weekends while still in school. The store was busy, and a conversation with the HR manager changed his perspective. He was told retail could be more than a part-time job, and the idea stayed with him.

He studied Retail Management in university, drawn to the strategy behind sales rather than frontline work. After graduating, he joined Debenhams as a trainee assistant manager before moving into head office roles. There, he concentrated on merchandising and leading teams. Over time, he developed a habit of fully engaging with each role, learning quickly, and finding ways to contribute.

Working with people has always been central to his approach.

The move to furniture

Brennan’s shift from fashion to furniture was influenced by the team at Sofa Club. When he met co-founder Tom and the rest of the staff, he recognized the same drive and vision that had attracted him to past roles. He has only worked at companies where he believes in the mission and the leadership.

The furniture sector also appealed to him. Sofa Club’s blend of fashion-inspired branding and home furnishings offered a fresh alternative to traditional retailers. Brennan saw a chance to apply his experience in customer experience and marketing to a new industry.

Adjusting hasn’t been easy. The terminology and logistics differ from fashion retail. Yet, the core challenge remains unchanged: creating products people love and presenting them effectively.

A leadership style shaped by experience

With experience as both COO and MD, Brennan brings a wide-ranging view to Sofa Club. Early in his career, he worked in merchandising, which taught him how decisions in one area affect others—from stock levels to marketing strategies.

His operational background adds a practical focus. Leadership isn’t just about goals; it’s about execution and commercial viability. Balancing creativity with financial discipline has become a key part of his approach.

Experience has also taught him to respond thoughtfully. He still stays informed and curious but now directs his energy more deliberately.

Sofa Club’s expansion plans

Sofa Club launched a new concept store in Newcastle’s Metrocentre over Easter, the first of several planned for 2026. The design differs from the brand’s usual style but maintains its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Cardiff and Edinburgh locations will follow later this year.