Aldo names first vice president of global footwear

Montreal-based Aldo Group has named Daianara Grullon Amalfitano to newly created role of vice president of global footwear, which will see her overusing the global footwear design of the company’s brands including Aldo and Call It Spring.

Amalfitano, who was previously president of speciality brands and international brand manager at Steve Madden, will take up her new role on February 15 and will report directly to Aldo chief executive officer Patrik Frisk and serve on the company’s executive board.

The new role is part of the Aldo Group’s new strategy to focus efforts on developing its branded businesses into new channels and Amalfitano will oversee all footwear brands, geographies and channels of distribution in at least 98 countries, and lead a large global team of experienced product managers, product developers and designers.

Aldo appoints Daianara Grullon Amalfitano as VP of footwear

Aldo Group chief executive officer, Patrik Frisk, said: "The Aldo Group is heading into an exciting time of evolution and growth. Our momentum is being fuelled in part by our talent, so I am excited to have Daianara join us at this pivotal moment. Having worked in both retail and wholesale, she has a proven track record of building successful brands.

“Her extensive experience leading the design and product management for footwear across categories, price points and consumer segments will be key in helping us drive the Aldo Group's brands to new heights.”

In addition, Amalfitano will work closely with the group’s marketing organisation to leverage key aspects of go-to-market, brand strategy, consumer insights, merchandising, sales data and customer feedback.

Commenting on her new role, Amalfitano added: "I am so excited for the opportunity to lead a global business that is both retail and branded wholesale in 98 countries and to creating a work environment that helps cultivate the next generation.”

The Aldo Group has more than 2,300 points of sale in 98 countries around the world and operates under two signature brands, Aldo and Call It Spring, and multi-brand retail concept, Globo. Collections are designed in Montreal, with supporting studios in Italy, London, and China, and a sourcing and manufacturing network that spans Asia Pacific, Latin America and Europe.

Image: Aldo