By Alicia Fiorletta, Senior Editor
Executive shakeups are an all-too-common part of the retail universe. What’s always interesting, though, is seeing which organizations executives decide to join.
One of the most recent retail mover and shaker is Jan Singer, the Nike powerhouse who is joining Spanx, Inc. as its new CEO.
Advertisement
In her time at Nike, Singer held various positions, including Corporate VP of Global Apparel and Corporate VP of Global Footwear. And she’s no stranger to the fashion world. Prior to joining Nike, Singer was VP and General Manager of Reebok’s women’s business, and even held positions at high-end brands including Chanel, Calvin Klein, and Prada. Singer also previously served as the Beauty and Fitness editor for YM Magazine.
Singer’s vast knowledge of the fashion space will undoubtedly help the Spanx brand expand more extensively into the women’s fashion / apparel category. Over the past year or so, the brand has opened a slew of brick-and-mortar stores, so Singer’s savvy in terms of what resonates with female customers may prove to be a competitive advantage for the brand.
Although Singer officially takes the CEO throne in early July 2014, Interim CEO Gregg Ribatt will guide her through the transition. Singer will report directly to Founder and Owner Sara Blakely.
Blakely called Singer a “perfect fit” for Spanx, and said she is “confident that she will transition from the locker room to the fitting room seamlessly."
Without a doubt, Singer’s ability to lead and innovate at big brands will be beneficial to Spanx as the brand continues to grow. In 2013, analysts estimated that the brand raked in at least $350 million in revenue.
