Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc. appointed Marc Schneider to the position of chief executive officer. She formerly worked for PVH Corp and Timberland.
Schneider, a veteran in retail and wholesale businesses with over 30 years of experience in building brands and global businesses, will assume responsibility for the company's retail, outlet, e-commerce, international, licensing and wholesale businesses. Kenneth Cole will continue as executive chairman and chief creative officer.
Schneider will report to Cole and will start on Feb. 23. Cole said, “Over the last year we have been working on transformative initiatives to better position the company for future global growth.” Cole continued, “Marc's vast background and success in all facets of the apparel, footwear and accessories businesses will be instrumental in navigating this journey, and I'm thrilled to welcome and partner with him as our new CEO.”
Schneider was most recently at PVH Corp. where he was Group President of the Heritage Brands. He was responsible for the Dress Furnishings, Sportswear, Licensing, and Retail Divisions. Prior to joining PVH Corp., Marc served as the Senior Vice President and an Officer at Timberland. In this role, he was responsible for global product, merchandising and licensing. Previously, Schneider held several leadership positions in retail organizations, including Division VP and Group VP of the men's division at Macy's. Schneider also served as Executive VP of Merchandising, Design and Planning at Melville Corporation / Bob's Stores where he was an owner / officer.
Schneider commented, “I am excited to partner with Kenneth, someone I've personally and professionally respected for many years. This is also a great opportunity to collaborate with the retailers, the licensing partners, and the entire Kenneth Cole team for the journey ahead. The brand has such rich heritage, and tremendous global potential, and I look forward to getting started.”
About Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc.
Kenneth Cole is an American designer, social activist, and visionary who believes business and philanthropy are interdependent. His global company, Kenneth Cole Productions, creates modern, functional, clothing, shoes, and accessories for inspirational urban lifestyles under the brand names Kenneth Cole New York, Kenneth Cole Reaction and Unlisted, as well as footwear under the name Gentle Souls. The company has also granted a wide variety of third party licenses for the production of men's and women's apparel, fragrances, watches, jewelry, eyewear, and several other accessory categories, including children's footwear. The company's products are distributed through department stores, better specialty stores, company-owned retail stores and its e-commerce website. Over 30 years ago, Kenneth Cole leveraged his passion and unique brand platform to make a meaningful impact on people's wardrobes, as well as communities in need. He did what others didn't and said what others wouldn't. Today, The Kenneth Cole Foundation remains committed to helping communities in need by supporting Collective Health, Civil Liberties, and Artistic Activism.
