Levi Strauss & Co. has appointed John Vandemore as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective November 1, as the denim major accelerates its transition towards a direct-to-consumer (DTC)-led business model and expands its positioning as a global lifestyle brand.
Vandemore joins Levi Strauss from Skechers, where he served as CFO for nine years. During his tenure, Skechers nearly tripled its revenue to more than $9 billion, while expanding its global footprint to over 180 countries and more than 5,000 stores. His experience in financial management, international expansion and business growth is expected to support Levi Strauss as it pursues its next phase of development.
He succeeds Harmit Singh, who is stepping down after 13 years with Levi Strauss. Singh will continue as a special advisor until the end of November to facilitate a smooth leadership transition.
The appointment comes as Levi Strauss continues to reshape its business strategy under CEO Michelle Gass. The company is working to reduce its dependence on wholesale distribution, strengthen its owned retail network and deepen its direct relationships with consumers. At the same time, it is broadening the Levi’s brand beyond its traditional denim heritage into a wider lifestyle offering.
Levi Strauss has set a long-term revenue target of $10 billion, with its DTC expansion and lifestyle strategy expected to play important roles in achieving this ambition.
Vandemore’s appointment signals the company’s continued focus on financial discipline, international growth and channel transformation as it seeks to strengthen its global market position and build a more consumer-centric business.
The leadership change reflects a broader strategic shift at Levi Strauss, with the company seeking to capture a greater share of consumer spending through its own retail and digital channels while expanding its appeal beyond core denim products.