Former Clarks exec steps into new role at Wolverine Worldwide

Wolverine Worldwide has appointed Frank Annunziata as VP and general manager of Sebago. Annunziata will be responsible for further developing the brand's global growth platform of footwear, apparel and accessories, and will report to Ted Gedra, president of the company's Heritage Group.



Annunziata most recently served as SVP of sales for the Clarks Footwear Company. He has developed high-end brands in department stores and other premium distribution channels. Sebago will leverage Annunziata's more than 30 years of experience integrating marketing, sales and product development efforts in support of leading lifestyle brands to achieve its global brand-building goals.



"The Heritage Group team is very pleased to be joined by a footwear industry leader of Frank's caliber,” said Gedra. “Our Sebago brand has been poised for some time to have breakout growth, and we believe that Frank's passion and leadership is just the catalyst the brand needs. His experience in building brands in premium distribution channels and his ability to establish long-term, meaningful relationships with some of the world's leading retailers provide a great fit for an authentic brand like Sebago."



"Sebago is truly a world-class, premium lifestyle brand," said Annunziata. "The brand's authentic, New England heritage make it a timeless and classic choice for the closets of discerning consumers. I am thrilled to be joining not only the Sebago and Heritage Group team, but also a leading global footwear company like Wolverine. Being a part of this organization with a focus on building lifestyle brands and powerful, industry-leading international expertise is an opportunity I am very excited to have."



Before his time at Clarks, Annunziata also spent time in leadership roles at other top footwear companies including Bostonian, Rockport and G.H. Bass. He received a BS in education from the University of Maine.



Wolverine World Wide is a global leading marketer of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport, athletic, children's and uniform footwear and apparel. The company's portfolio of brands includes Merrell, Sperry Top-Sider, Hush Puppies, Saucony, Wolverine, Keds, Stride Rite, Sebago, Cushe, Chaco, Bates, Hytest, and Soft Style. The company also is the global footwear licensee of the Cat, Harley-Davidson and Patagonia brands. The company's products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in approximately 200 countries and territories.