Tilly’s, Inc. has named active lifestyle market veteran executive and former Navy SEAL Nate Smith as president and CEO, effective August 18, 2025. In conjunction with this appointment, company Co-Founder, Executive Chairman, and current President and CEO Hezy Shaked will transition back into the executive chairman role effective on the same date.
“On behalf of myself and the Board, we are very excited to have Nate join our leadership team, and I am looking forward to working closely with him as he transitions into Tillys,” commented Shaked. “We believe Nate’s combination of robust industry experience, core values, and strategic vision will help revitalize our brand and drive further improvements in our business during this important time.”
Smith has served as CEO of Marolina Outdoor, Inc. since September 2024. Previously, he was at Boardriders, Inc. from June 2017 to April 2024 as president, Americas. Prior to Boardriders, Smith served as VP/GM, North American Wholesale at Oakley, Inc. from September 2015 to June 2017 and as VP, Oakley Defense from July 2012 to June 2017. He has also served in executive roles at Ipath Footwear, MV Transportation, Inc. and Patagonia, Inc., following his eight years of service in the United States Navy.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead a company like Tillys,” said Smith. “Tillys has had a strong track record of success over its 43-year history, and I am excited to work with Hezy, the Board and the team to revitalize and build upon that history.”
Images courtesy Tilly’s, Inc. / LinkedIn
