Fleet Feet Inc. made several leadership appointments with new hires, expanded roles and promotions as the brand continues to focus on fueling growth.
Stuart Williams joined Fleet Feet as vice president of IT, responsible for building a comprehensive technology roadmap, including IT infrastructure that supports corporate and franchise operations and develops technology solutions to “enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Fleet Feet’s systems and platforms.” Williams was previously with North Carolina-based grocery chain The Fresh Market, where he was the vice president and CIO for over 15 years. He reports to Jason Jabaut, COO of Fleet Feet, Inc.
“We’ve embarked on a significant evolution of our IT structure, and I’m thrilled Stuart will be at the helm, leading our transformation,” said Jabaut. “Stuart brings a wealth of IT and retail experience and will play a pivotal role in shaping the technology future of our brand.”
Melissa (Missy) Gabriele joins the company as director of apparel and accessories. In this newly created role, she is responsible for developing, implementing and overseeing apparel and accessories purchasing that aligns with corporate operations and objectives. She joined Fleet Feet with nearly two decades of retail experience, having worked at Gap, Inc. and American Eagle Outfitters. She reports to Catherine Moloznik, vice president of purchasing and merchandising.
“Over the past few years, we’ve made strategic investments in expanding our apparel and accessories offering to better serve our customers,” said Moloznik. “Missy’s expertise in seasonal management, assortment planning and product strategies will be invaluable as we continue to grow this area of our business.”
In addition to new hires, John Moloznik’s role as vice president of business development expanded to include franchise operations. This evolution “aims to foster a more integrated approach to franchise support, from onboarding and opening new stores to exit strategies and transition planning for franchisees,” reported Fleet Feet.
“With a thriving network of almost 200 franchise stores, our commitment to nurturing and supporting the success and health of our franchisees has never been stronger,” said Joey Pointer, president and CEO of Fleet Feet, Inc. “The success of our franchise stores is integral to our collective growth, and we are committed to providing the tools, resources, and guidance necessary to foster an environment of mutual success. I’m excited about this new chapter and confident that John and the team will further strengthen our support for franchisees, ensuring they continue to thrive and excel in their local communities.”
Tiffany Lee, formerly director of marketing and media, was promoted to senior director of performance marketing and partnerships. Lee will have a “significant role leading Fleet Feet’s performance marketing efforts, including acquisition and retention channels, continuing to drive brand awareness through national partnerships and public relations.” Additionally, Fleet Feet’s vendor management program, led by Victor Ornelas, will roll under Lee’s leadership to “ensure a synergistic approach to the brand’s marketing efforts and vendor relationships,” said Fleet Feet.
Sarah Holden was promoted to director of human resources, an expansion of her previous work as senior manager of HR. In her new role, Holden oversees Fleet Feet’s HR operations, including talent management and engagement; benefits, including health and employee wellbeing; and compliance, including employee resources and training based on state and federal legislation.
“One of the things I love most about Fleet Feet is our deeply-rooted belief in people development and recognizing individuals ready to step into bigger roles,” said Pointer. “Tiffany and Sarah’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping impactful initiatives across the brand. I believe we’re building the right culture and the right team, and I’m excited for the continued development of our entire leadership team.”
Fleet Feet’s growth “rapidly accelerated” with the acquisitions of JackRabbit in December 2021 and Marathon Sports in July 2022. JackRabbit stores were folded into the Fleet Feet brand, while Marathon Sports remains a wholly owned subsidiary of Fleet Feet.
In 2023, Fleet Feet opened 19 new stores, including 15 franchise locations. Together, Fleet Feet and Marathon Sports support more than five million customers across 300 locally owned and operated stores.
Images courtesy Fleet Feet, Inc.
