Clarks has hired Jonathan Ram as CEO for Clarks shoes effective April 2022.

Ram, a veteran of the footwear and apparel categories, was most recently group president, global activewear at HanesBrands, Inc., heading up its global activewear business across multiple brands and businesses. Before that, he worked for sixteen years at New Balance, managing its LATAM, EMEA and North American businesses.

Commenting on the appointment, Colin Li, Chairman of Clarks, said: “I am pleased to welcome Jon to Clarks as our new CEO. He brings significant global experience and understanding of the footwear and apparel market. In the last year, Clarks has implemented a focused turnaround strategy designed to protect the future of the business and to build a foundation for sustainable growth in the years ahead. This has resulted in an improved financial position. With the appointment of Jon as CEO, we now look forward to a new phase where we will focus on growing our business in current and new markets and channels, and Jon will take a leading role in taking Clarks to the next level.”

Ram added: “Clarks is an iconic brand with a rich history in shoemaking craftsmanship, expertise, and sustainability. It is truly an honor to be given the opportunity to lead the Clarks business and work with such a talented team. Significant progress has been made in the last year, and my focus is on taking the company to the next level of growth and success. We have a lot to do, and I am excited to begin the journey.”