Companies

Genesco names new Chief Merchandising Officer for Journeys

Jan 9, 2024 United States

The Nashville-based footwear company has named Chris Santaella as Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer of the Journeys Group, effective from the 5th of February

Santaella joins Genesco from Foot Locker, where he held several positions for more than three decades, most recently as senior vice president and chief merchandising officer responsible for Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker and Champs Sports. He is expected to lead Journeys’ buying, merchandising, planning and product strategies, building on the group’s foundation as a leading teen fashion footwear retail and its brand mission of “an attitude you can wear”.

“Chris is an experienced industry veteran and brand strategist who brings a proven track record of leading global product teams. His exceptional brand leadership and strategic vision, coupled with his passion and commitment to youth culture, is the perfect fit to lead the talented Journeys buying and merchandising team as we continue our work to elevate and evolve the business for the future”, commented Genesco Board Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer Mimi E. Vaughn.

He will report to Andy Gray, Journeys president. Santaella is “a highly respected industry leader known for his collaborative management style and successful long-term brand relationships who will strongly complement our already outstanding team”, stated Gray. “Chris’ deep experience will help us build upon this solid foundation as we define the next chapter of Journeys’ growth”, he concluded.

Chris Santaella will succeed Pete Hicks, who retired in October 2023.

Image Credits: genesco.gcs-web.com

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