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 company just days later. The victim, identified only as Gemma, spoke to the BBC in her first media interview about the incident, which occurred in May 2022.

Gemma had been employed by Holder at a new business he launched after departing Superdry. She described a tense work environment where mistakes were not tolerated and employees were constantly on edge, suggesting it was a method to "command respect and a sort of allegiance to his agenda."

During Holder's sentencing in May, where he received an eight-year prison sentence for rape, the court heard details of the "despicable piece of sexual violence." Gemma recounted the attack, which took place at her home after Holder joined her taxi following work drinks. Despite her attempts to sleep in her lounge, Holder entered her bedroom and assaulted her.

The revelation of Gemma's employment by Holder adds a new layer of complexity to the case, highlighting the power dynamics at play. Her right to anonymity had previously prevented the reporting of her working relationship with the disgraced fashion mogul.

Before the attack, Gemma had initially worked for Holder at Superdry in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. She noted that her interactions with him at Superdry were minimal, with Holder holding a near "celebrity-like status." However, her later employment at his new venture exposed her to what she described as increasingly controlling behavior.

The rape occurred after a company gathering at a bar. While friends arranged taxis for colleagues, Holder entered Gemma's taxi uninvited. Her plan to go straight home was interrupted when Holder accompanied her to her address, leading to the assault.

Gemma described feeling fearful for her future the morning after the assault. During Holder's sentencing, she conveyed to the court that he had taken her "choice, her dignity and her body."

Holder, 54, is married and has two children. The BBC reported that in a police interview, Holder described himself as being like "Mr Darcy" with women. The BBC has provided resources for those affected by the details in the story through its Action Line.