Business people : Birkenstock USA Names Kahan CEO

Birkenstock USA named David Kahan as chief executive officer, starting June 1. Kahan will drive the strategy, development and growth of the German-made footwear brand in the United States.

“Having made tremendous contributions to the growth of some of the world’s leading footwear brands, David has extensive experience in developing and implementing strategies that will continue to drive sales and distribution,” said Shelly Glasgow, Birkenstock director of product development and marketing. “The Birkenstock brand is experiencing tremendous momentum and relevancy and we’re thrilled to have someone of David’s caliber to build on our success in the US.”

Kahan brings more than 20 years experience as a senior leader at global footwear brands including Rockport, Reebok, Fila and Nike. He most recently held the position of president of the Footwear Group for ENK International, a leader in fashion trade events. In this role, Kahan reengineered the WSA show in Las Vegas, transforming it into the largest US trade show dedicated to sourcing and fast fashion for the footwear industry. While at ENK, he also led the Sole Commerce events in New York City, which focus on the fashion business.

 

Prior to ENK, Kahan led the Rockport Brand for North America, with responsibility for all sales, customer service, marketing, regional product management, finance, operations, and human resources. Kahan started his career in the Macy’s Executive Training Program, eventually being selected to be the first ever footwear coordinator and eventually holding a series of buying positions within the Footwear division.

“The image of Birkenstock and its core DNA are very much in tune with the lifestyle and mindset of U.Ss consumers,” said Kahan. “People are seeking a more holistic life, they are not looking to compromise comfort for style, and they are seeking authentic brands that deliver on these promises. Retailers will see an energy behind our efforts to deliver on these qualities as we support them in meeting the needs of their consumers.”

Q&A with David Kahan, Birkenstock USA CEO as of June 1, 2013

Q: What is on the immediate horizon for Birkenstock as you prepare for Spring 2014?
A: This is an exciting time for Birkenstock, both internally and externally, and I’m looking forward to working with the team to assess and grow our opportunities. Much is on the horizon, starting with our sales meeting in early June. This summer the entire company will be moving to one integrated system. Tradeshow season is right around the corner, product looks great and a united sales force will now hit the road with our complete portfolio, including Birki’s and Papillio. There is so much to look forward to and, for me, June 1 can’t come quickly enough.

Q: What does this appointment mean for Birkenstock?
A: Birkenstock has tremendous brand value and equity. You can go anywhere and ask folks what they know about Birkenstock and they’ll tell you they’re the most comfortable shoes ever. The brand is so highly visible and highly relevant right now that it’s all opportunity going forward. I’m most looking forward to working with our retail partners to leverage this momentum and maximize their business.

Q: What should retailers expect from Birkenstock in the future?
A: First off, retailers who know me, know that as an organization we will be committed to the best possible service at all times – we will definitely excel as a “best in class” sales and service team to ensure we make it easy for our retail partners to do business with us. Moving to an integrated sales force and one data platform is a major step for us in this direction. Second, we will listen closely to the needs of the US market. Birkenstock is a global brand and we will always maintain the DNA and values of the brand, however, we will be innovative from a product standpoint in how we manifest this in fresh styles to meet the specific needs of the US consumer.

Q: What most excites you about the Birkenstock brand?
A: Birkenstock is one of the most iconic footwear brands in the history of the industry. There are only a few brands, let alone footwear brands, that not only have immediate name recognition, but more important, a brand image that comes to mind when you speak of them. The image of Birkenstock, the core DNA of the brand is very much in tune with the lifestyle and mindset of US consumers – people are seeking a more holistic life, they are not looking to compromise comfort for style, and they are seeking authentic brands that deliver on these qualities. There is no better brand than Birkenstock that fits the bill, and retailers will see an energy behind our efforts that will support them in meeting the needs of their consumers.

Source Birkenstock USA through SportsOneSource