Wolverine Worldwide has announced that it has appointed Bishu Jayaram to serve in the newly-created role of chief supply chain officer. This position will be responsible for global sourcing, distribution, logistics, and integrated planning – a critical role in driving the company’s ongoing transformation into a consumer-obsessed growth company.

Jayaram, a seasoned executive with over 20 years in supply chain and sourcing roles, has served as Wolverine Worldwide’s senior vice president of global sourcing for the past two years, leading sourcing activities for all product categories across the company’s portfolio of brands. Before joining Wolverine, he spent six years with VF Corporation in a variety of supply chain capacities, including leading Asia sourcing for all footwear, equipment, and packs – while also leading global material supply for all apparel, footwear, and equipment. Earlier in his career, Jayaram held supply chain and costing roles with Avery Denison, Adidas, and Gap, the company said in a press release.

“Jayaram has a proven track record of successfully navigating complex supply chain landscapes and implementing innovative strategies and has led the company’s sourcing organisation during a period of unprecedented supply chain volatility,” said Chris Hufnagel, president and CEO of Wolverine Worldwide, to whom Jayaram will report. “His appointment aligns well with our commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, building great brands across the globe, and transforming us into a consumer-obsessed growth company.”

In conjunction with this appointment, the company also announced that Jim Zwiers, executive vice president and president of its global operations group, will transition away from Wolverine Worldwide in early 2024. A 25-year veteran of the company, Zwiers has served in a variety of roles over his career – including as president of the outdoor and lifestyle group, president of the international group, general counsel, and leading the company’s mergers and acquisitions function.

“Jim has dedicated his time and talent to Wolverine Worldwide for the last 25 years. We thank and recognise him for his many years of dedicated service to the company, and wish him only the very best,” said Hufnagel.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RR)