A woman who was raped by Superdry co-founder James Holder has revealed she was working for him at the time of the attack and had to return to his business just days later. The victim, identified only as Gemma, spoke to the BBC in an exclusive interview, detailing the fear and dread she experienced upon returning to work at a new business Holder had launched after leaving Superdry.

Holder, 54, was sentenced to eight years in prison in May for the rape of Gemma, an act described in court as "a despicable piece of sexual violence." The attack occurred in May 2022 after a work event. Gemma had been working for Holder, initially at Superdry and later at a new company he was developing. Her anonymity meant the details of her employment relationship with Holder could not be previously reported.

Gemma described a work environment under Holder that was high-pressure, with "no room for mistakes" and employees "on high alert." She characterized this atmosphere as a method to "command respect and a sort of allegiance to his agenda." While she had limited direct interaction with Holder during her time at Superdry, she became more aware of his "controlling behaviour" in his subsequent venture.

The rape took place after a Friday night gathering with colleagues at a bar in Cheltenham. According to Gemma, Holder entered her taxi uninvited after she had arranged for a ride home. Despite her plan to be dropped off at her residence, Holder accompanied her inside. He initially fell asleep before waking and sexually assaulting her.

In the aftermath, Gemma expressed feeling that her "choice, her dignity and her body" had been taken. The psychological toll was significant, leading her to feel "like I was going to have the whole world against me." The revelation of her working relationship with Holder adds another layer to the case, highlighting the power dynamics involved and the victim's difficult position.

Holder, a multi-millionaire, had left Superdry in 2016 to pursue new business ventures. The court heard details of the "despicable piece of sexual violence" during his sentencing, which resulted in an eight-year prison term. The BBC's report emphasizes the victim's courage in speaking out and sharing her experience.

Details of Holder's behaviour during the incident, including a police interview where he described himself as "like 'Mr Darcy' with women," were also highlighted. The court proceedings and subsequent media interview underscore the severity of the crime and the impact on the victim.

The case raises questions about workplace safety and the responsibilities of employers, particularly when there is a significant power imbalance. Gemma's testimony provides a stark account of the personal cost of such predatory behaviour.