What's Happening?
Caleres, a leading global footwear company, has announced the appointment of Kathleen Welter as its new Chief Human Resources Officer. Welter will be responsible for overseeing all human resources functions across Caleres' portfolio of brands, which includes Famous Footwear, Sam Edelman, and others. Her role will encompass recruitment, talent management, training, culture, compensation, benefits, and labor law compliance. Welter will join the company's leadership team and report directly to President and CEO Jay Schmidt. She brings nearly three decades of HR experience, having previously served as Vice President of Human Resources at Woodard & Curran, where she led senior executive recruitment and succession planning. Welter is returning to Caleres, where she previously worked as Director of Talent Management and Vice President of Talent Strategy.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Kathleen Welter as Chief Human Resources Officer is significant for Caleres as it aims to strengthen its HR leadership and align talent with strategic objectives. Welter's extensive experience in HR management and her previous tenure at Caleres will likely contribute to the company's efforts in enhancing its organizational design and team development. This move is expected to support Caleres' mission to inspire people through its footwear brands, which are available in nearly 1,000 retail stores and various online platforms. By focusing on talent management and HR integration, Caleres can better navigate the challenges of the global footwear market and maintain its legacy of craftsmanship and passion for fit.
What's Next?
Doug Koch, the current Chief Human Resources Officer, will remain at Caleres for a 30-day transition period to assist Welter and support special projects until his retirement at the end of the year. This transition period will ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities and continuity in HR operations. As Welter settles into her new role, she will likely focus on implementing strategic HR initiatives that align with Caleres' long-term goals. The company may also explore opportunities for further growth and expansion in its retail and online presence, leveraging Welter's expertise in talent strategy and leadership continuity.
