Kim Buckland (left) with Liz Earle at the Isle of Wight Chamber Of Commerce Business Awards in 2006 after winning Business of the Year and Business Person of the Year.
THE husband and wife couple who helped create one of the Island’s biggest companies have resigned, the County Press can reveal.
Liz Earle chief executive John Buckland and his wife and co-founder of the global skincare brand, Kim Buckland, of Gurnard, have announced they were both stepping down.
A spokesman said: "Since successfully overseeing the company’s acquisition by Avon Cosmetics in 2010, John has seen the Liz Earle Beauty company continue to grow and expand, with the availability of new opportunities, resources and investment secured along with the Avon deal. John’s decision to step down reflects the fact the company is now in safe hands.
"Kim, who co-founded the Liz Earle brand together with Liz, has also taken the difficult decision to leave the company after 17 incredibly busy, successful and fulfilling years."
Mrs Buckland will stay at the company until September.
Kim said: "It is with such a mixture of feelings that I will leave the business, but feel after 17 wonderful years the time is right for me to move on.
"I have been so fortunate to meet and work with many passionate, loyal and talented people, who I will sadly miss. My dear friend Liz has been a truly inspirational business partner and we both have very many special memories."
Liz Earle said: "I would like to publicly thank John for his incredible leadership over the years as we have rapidly grown, as well as to wish both him and Kim every good wish for their future as a very dynamic duo.
"Kim and I started as a team of two on day one and the Liz Earle Beauty company has now grown to a team closer to 600.
"As co-founder, her creative brilliance, commitment to quality and service has inspired many, myself included. I will very much miss my dear friend and partner in the business but I’m looking forward to continuing to be part of the Liz Earle Beauty company team and will also remain on the board."