Vans veteran named as next Carter's CEO
Carter’s, Inc. has found its next chief executive after a two-month search.
The infants and young children’s apparel retailer has announced that Douglas Palladini has been appointed CEO and president and a member of the board of directors, effective April 3, 2025. Carter’s began its search in January following the retirement of chairman and CEO Michael D. Casey after more than 15 years in the role and a more than 30-year career with the company.
Palladini previously served as global brand president of footwear and apparel brand Vans, a division of V.F. Corporation, for more than five years until April 2022, and spent a total of nearly 18 years with the company, holding a number of roles. He is credited with increasing global revenue to over $4.2 billion at Vans in less than six years, while also growing profitability and brand equity by expanding product assortments and building loyalty among consumers.
“After a comprehensive search, we are thrilled to appoint Doug Palladini as CEO of Carter’s,” said William J. Montgoris, non-executive chairman of the Carter’s Inc. board. “Doug’s remarkable track record of growing brands, his deep understanding of consumer-driven strategies, and his expertise in creating global brand connections will be invaluable as we continue to build upon Carter’s strong foundation. Under Doug’s leadership, Carter’s will continue to innovate, strengthen our unique, multi-channel business model, and stay true to our mission of providing high-quality, affordable apparel for young children.”
Most recently, Palladini has served as founder and owner of Kickstand, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in brand strategy, executive coaching, and organizational design. He currently serves on the board of directors for headphone brand Skullcandy, Inc. and sock brand Stance.
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“Carter’s is a storied company with a powerful legacy and iconic brands that have long been trusted by families with young children for its quality, value and style,” said Palladini. “I am eager to continue to advance the important work underway in our retail and wholesale businesses, further build upon Carter’s brand equity, and create lasting connections with our customers through accelerated relevance, inspiring products, and meaningful storytelling.”
Headquartered in Atlanta, Carter’s operates over 1,000 stores in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Carter’s also is the largest supplier of young children’s apparel to the largest retailers in North America. Its Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh are sold in leading department stores, national chains, and specialty retailers domestically and internationally.
