Designer Brands appoints new presidents

Designer Brands Inc. announced on Tuesday two new appointments, as the brand continues to focus on its omnichannel capabilities.

Debbie Ferrée was named president of Camuto Group, adding to her ongoing role as vice chairman. In addition, William "Bill" Jordan was named president of Designer Brands. In this role, Jordan will keep his position as Designer Brands' chief growth officer, which he has held since February 2020.

"Designer Brands continues to stay ahead of retail consumer and fashion trends, as evidenced by our ongoing improving financial performance," said Designer Brands chief executive officer, Roger Rawlins.

"To maintain this competitive advantage, we need the right leaders to guide us in evaluating and identifying ways to enhance our organizational structure, including the ongoing integration of Camuto Group to unlock greater value for the enterprise. This ensures that we will continue meeting customers' needs both in stores and online, as our business recovers and we make the necessary investments to build a stronger foundation for the future.”

Ferrée has held the position of president of Camuto Group on an interim basis since August 2020. In this role, she has helped advance Camuto's integration into the DBI organization and growing brands. Integration work includes continued growth of brands exclusive to DSW such as JLO Jennifer Lopez, Kelly & Katie, and Crown Vintage as well as other owned brands such as Vince Camuto. Owned brands have gained strength in recent quarters and represented 15 of the top 25 selling items at DSW in first quarter of 2021, the company said.

Likewise, as president of Designer Brands, Jordan will continue to oversee the enterprise's shared services functions, including human resources and information technology. As part of Camuto Group's continued integration, the sourcing and supply chain business functions will move under Jordan in Designer Brands' shared services organization.

The Columbus, Ohio-based company is the owner of the DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Shoe Warehouse retail chains, as well as the Camuto manufacturing group.

Last month, Designer Brands said net sales in Q1 2021 were $703.2 million, up 45.6 percent from $482.8 million in the prior-year period. Comparable sales increased 52.2 percent, compared to a 42.3 percent decrease in Q1 2020.

Designer Brands appoints new presidents

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