Former Toys ‘R’ Us exec Stride(s) Rite

Wolverine Worldwide has appointed Ira P. Hernowitz as president of the Stride Rite Children's Group.



Hernowitz most recently served as EVP of "R" Us Brands for Toys “R” Us, Inc. He has served in a variety of leadership roles throughout his career, and deep experience in children's products.



"I am very pleased to have Ira join the leadership team and expect that he will bring valuable perspective as a leader whose approach is highly consumer-centric and focused on creating meaningful experiences at retail," said Blake W. Krueger, chairman and CEO of Wolverine Worldwide.



"We are very pleased to have found such a dynamic and experienced leader for the Stride Rite Children's Group,” added Mark Neal, president of the Lifestyle Group. “The Stride Rite team has worked very hard to reposition and reignite the brand at both wholesale and in its consumer direct channels. Ira's exceptional background in marketing products to kids and moms will benefit not only the Stride Rite brand, but also our other brands that have established children's businesses, such as Sperry Top-Sider, Keds and Merrell. We are excited to welcome Ira to the team, and look forward to his immediate contributions to the Stride Rite Children's Group."



"I am excited to join the Stride Rite Children's Group and such a strong leadership team," said Hernowitz. "The Stride Rite brand is the gold standard in children's footwear, and Wolverine Worldwide is an industry leader with an unparalleled portfolio of global lifestyle brands."



Prior to joining Toys “R” Us, Hernowitz held a variety of senior leadership roles with other global children's specialty companies, including Hasbro and Tyco. Hernowitz has a BS in communications from Syracuse University.