MOVERS: TWO EXECUTIVE PROMOTIONS AT STEVE MADDEN

Steve Madden has promoted two of its executives. The footwear and accessories brand announced today that Amelia Newton Varela has been named to the newly created position of president and Karla Frieders has been appointed to the newly created position of chief merchandising officer.

Newton Varela has more than 17 years of experience with the company in various jobs and most recently was EVP of wholesale. Frieders has been with Steve Madden for more than 16 years and was promoted from her most recent role as EVP of product development. Both joined the company when they were just out of school.

“Amelia and Karla are both highly talented executives who have been instrumental to the success and growth of our company,” said Edward Rosenfeld, chairman and CEO in a statement. “Under Amelia’s leadership, our wholesale business has grown exponentially over the last decade, as we have expanded into new brands, new product categories and new distribution channels. We look forward to her further contributions as she broadens her role in the organization. Karla has proven herself to have a deep understanding of product and trends, and we are confident she will be highly successful in her role as chief merchandising officer. We are pleased to recognize the many contributions Amelia and Karla have made to the company with these promotions and to further strengthen the executive team at Steve Madden.”