Reed Krakoff bolsters management team

Luxury fashion house Reed Krakoff has bolstered its management team with the appointment of Stacy Van Praagh, former president of Fendi Americas, as its new president with immediate effect. Van Praagh will oversee all aspects of the “global retail and wholesale business expansion”

and will additionally work to deepen the brands' existing distribution network, while reporting directly to Reed Krakoff, who will retain the position of Chief Executive Officer.

Prior to her work at work at Fendi, Van Praagh held key leadership roles at Oscar de la Renta, Kate Spade and Chanel, bring with her to Reed Krakoff more than two decades of knowledge in both luxury retail and wholesale markets.

Commenting on her new role, Van Praggh said: "There is strong potential in the global luxury marketplace for unique brands who have their roots in America. They must have vision, creativity and interesting stories to tell. When considering the brands that will succeed, Reed Krakoff is at the top of the list.

“I believe in the significant potential ahead for the impressive Reed Krakoff team. I join them to strategically and nimbly accelerate forward. Together, we will thoughtfully bring this vision into the brand and out to the global marketplace. With the proven successes and momentum of the brand today, I am confident and excited for the future."

Reed Krakoff announces top management appointments

Additionally, the fashion label, which is looking to become the next great American luxury brand, has also hired Evelyn Kim as chief digital officer, a newly created position to development the brand’s new marketing and digital platforms. Kim joins from Tiffany & Co. where she most recently held the post of vice president, global digital marketing.

The appointments are the first steps in an aggressive development strategy for the brand, since the fashion and accessories designer bought back his namesake label from the Coach group last year.

Announcing the appointments, Krakoff said: "I'm extremely pleased to announce the additions of two new key members of the Reed Krakoff organization. Stacy Van Praagh is a talented and seasoned luxury executive whose drive and enthusiasm will lead our global retail and wholesale business.

“Evelyn Kim, our chief digital officer, brings with her a wealth of experience and talent from the world of new technology. She will lead the marketing vision and execution of our brand in the digital space. Her hire embodies our commitment to making Reed Krakoff an innovative and creative luxury brand."

Image: Reed Krakoff SS14