MERRELL APPOINTS SUMI SCOTT AS CHIEF MERCHANT OFFICER

Rhea-AI Summary

Merrell has appointed Sumi Scott as their new Chief Merchant Officer, effective March 21, 2022. With nearly 20 years of experience in retail merchandising and product development, Scott will lead the brand's global merchandising efforts and direct-to-consumer operations. Reporting to Chris Hufnagel, Merrell's global brand president, Scott aims to enhance the brand's growth strategies and transform its apparel and accessories sector. Her previous roles include leadership positions at The North Face and Canada Goose, where she drove significant product initiatives.

Positive

• Sumi Scott brings nearly 20 years of experience in retail merchandising and product development, which may boost Merrell's growth.
• Her leadership is expected to enhance the brand's product storytelling and go-to-market strategies.

Negative

• Concerns may arise regarding continuity and the adaptability of Scott's vision with Merrell's existing culture.

Outdoor and Retail Industry Veteran will Lead the Brand's Global Merchandising Initiatives

ROCKFORD, Mich., March 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Merrell^®, the leading outdoor performance and lifestyle brand, today announced the appointment of industry veteran, Sumi Scott (she/her), as the brand's Chief Merchant Officer. With nearly 20 years of experience in product development and retail merchandising, Scott will help spearhead the evolution of Merrell's global growth strategies, while establishing the brand's roadmap to future category growth. Scott is also responsible for overseeing the transformation of Merrell's apparel and accessories business, while leading merchandising for the brand's direct-to-consumer operations. Scott will report directly to Merrell's global brand president, Chris Hufnagel.

"We're thrilled to welcome Sumi to Merrell – we believe her extensive experience, merchant mindset, and passion for the outdoors is perfectly aligned with our team and brand," said Chris Hufnagel. "As a consumer-centric, data-driven merchant, we know Sumi will play a pivotal role in further propelling Merrell's growth as a global leader in the outdoor industry."

As Chief Merchant Officer, Scott will lead Merrell's global product merchandising organization, helping to advance the brand, while reinforcing its legacy as a definitive category leader. Prior to joining Merrell, she spent nearly 20 years in product and merchandising leadership roles with other prominent outdoor and lifestyle brands such as The North Face^® and Canada Goose^®, In these roles, Scott was responsible for leading strategic and transformational initiatives, where her experience spanned from launching new categories to elevating the product storytelling and go-to-market processes. With a proven track record of driving growth and developing compelling product assortments, Scott's approach will complement Merrell's leadership team and add key skills as the brand continues to build upon its rich heritage, while charting new areas to drive future, sustainable growth.

"For years, I have admired Merrell's passion and commitment to the outdoors – I'm so honored by this opportunity to join such a dynamic and progressive team," Scott said. "I was attracted to Merrell because of the vision of the brand and the team, which is why I look forward to working alongside of these trailblazers and doing my part to elevate the consumer-first mindset across the brand's product innovation and retail experience to help drive accelerated growth and further establish Merrell's positioning as a head-to-toe performance and lifestyle brand."

Scott holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan and resides in Michigan with her family.

ABOUT MERRELL:
Merrell® exists to share the simple power of being outside and is committed to building an inclusive and sustainable environment for future generations to enjoy. As the global leader in outdoor active footwear with the Moab hiking boot and Jungle Moc, Merrell is focused on merging performance, styling, and comfort to empower all people to confidently explore the outdoors. Visit Merrell.com or follow us on social @Merrell. Merrell® is a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc.(NYSE: WWW), one of the world's leading marketers and licensors of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport, athletic, children's and uniform footwear and apparel.

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SOURCE Merrell

FAQ

What is the significance of Sumi Scott's appointment as Chief Merchant Officer at Merrell?

Sumi Scott's appointment is significant as she brings extensive experience in retail merchandising that could drive Merrell's growth and innovation.

When was Sumi Scott appointed as Chief Merchant Officer of Merrell?

Sumi Scott was appointed as Chief Merchant Officer on March 21, 2022.

What experience does Sumi Scott have prior to joining Merrell?

Prior to joining Merrell, Sumi Scott held leadership roles at The North Face and Canada Goose, focusing on product development and merchandising.

How will Sumi Scott impact Merrell's business operations?

Sumi Scott is expected to enhance Merrell's global merchandising initiatives and transform its apparel and accessories business.

Who does Sumi Scott report to at Merrell?

Sumi Scott reports directly to Chris Hufnagel, the global brand president of Merrell.