Tommy Hilfiger names head of Asia business

AMSTERDAM — The Tommy Hilfiger Group has announced the appointment of John Ermatinger to CEO of the company's Asia business, effective Aug. 1. In this newly created position Ermatinger will report to Fred Gehring, CEO of the Tommy Hilfiger Group. Ermatinger will be based in the Tommy Hilfiger Hong Kong offices.

As CEO of the Asia business, Ermatinger will oversee all business activities in Asia, including the subsidiary Tommy Hilfiger Japan, the joint venture Tommy Hilfiger China, and the various licensed businesses throughout the territory.

Ermatinger most recently served as president of Gap Asia Pacific for two years and President of Gap Japan for three years. Under his leadership, Gap successfully launched the brand in China. Prior to Gap, he was the general manager of Asia Pacific Apparel and Asia Hub Director of Global Apparel Sourcing for Nike Inc. From 1973 to 1998, he held various positions at Levis Strauss & Co. including president of Levi Strauss The Americas.