Authentic Brands Group hired Josh Perlman as EVP, head of Greater China. He brings more than 25 years of experience to the company, previously serving as the managing director at Tristate.
At Tristate, Perlman was instrumental in signing and building brands such as Jack Wolfskin, Fila, Nautica, Spyder and Reebok.
In his new role, Perlman will build out Authentic’s China-based team, guide growth in China, and help scale Authentic’s portfolio of brands across the Asia Pacific region.
“Josh joins us at a pivotal point in Authentic’s global expansion. His exceptional leadership skills and deep understanding of the local market make him uniquely positioned to continue the company’s momentum in Greater China,” said Wesley Chu, regional president, Sports & Lifestyle, APAC.
Perlman is based in Shanghai, where Authentic launched its APAC headquarters in 2023. The office houses a cross-functional team across Lifestyle, Entertainment, brand, business development, PR and marketing.
“Recognizing the tremendous potential of this dynamic market, I am thrilled to be part of an exceptional team leading the charge in Greater China,” Perlman said. “Authentic’s innovative business model and power in the licensing space present unlimited opportunities to accelerate growth for its iconic brands.”
The appointment follows the recent additions of Jeff Daggett as SVP, head of Japan, based in Tokyo, and Lim Mi-Kyoung as SVP, head of Australia and New Zealand, based in Melbourne, Australia. Perlman, Daggett and Mi-Kyoung will assemble a team of industry experts focused on fueling Authentic brand and business development in the region.
“Authentic’s brands are deeply entrenched in the ever-evolving Japanese retail landscape,” Daggett said. “As we fortify the regional team with top talent, Authentic solidifies its foothold in the Asia Pacific and unlocks the value of its brands in key markets around the world.”
Mi-Kyoung added, “With these appointments, Authentic demonstrates the importance of establishing a local presence in untapped and fast-growing territories. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a transformative new era as the company enters 15 years in business.”
Authentic’s brand portfolio includes Shaquille O’Neal, David Beckham, Sports Illustrated, Dr. J, Greg Norman, Neil Lane, Thalia, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Muhammad Ali, Reebok, Brooks Brothers, Barneys New York, Judith Leiber, Ted Baker, Hunter, Vince, Hervé Léger, Frye, Nautica, Juicy Couture, Vince Camuto, Lucky Brand, Aéropostale, Forever 21, Nine West, Sperry, Rockport, Eddie Bauer, Boardriders, Quiksilver, Billabong, Roxy, DC Shoes, RVCA, Spyder, Volcom, Prince, Izod, Van Heusen, Hart Schaffner Marx and Thomasville.
Photos courtesy Authentic