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The AAFA Board of Directors Leadership Changes announced during the 2026 Annual Executive Summit signal a new chapter for the American apparel and footwear industry. The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) confirmed a refreshed leadership team and welcomed newly elected and re-elected executives to its Board of Directors during the event held in Washington, D.C.
These leadership appointments will guide the association’s strategic direction for the 2026–2027 term, with an emphasis on strengthening industry collaboration, addressing global supply chain challenges, and advancing policy advocacy that supports sustainable growth in the apparel and footwear sector.
As one of the most influential trade organizations representing apparel brands, footwear manufacturers, retailers, and textile suppliers in the United States, AAFA plays a crucial role in shaping industry standards, trade policy discussions, and sustainability initiatives.
The newly structured board reflects the evolving dynamics of the fashion supply chain and the growing importance of strategic leadership in navigating regulatory changes, shifting consumer expectations, and global economic pressures.
At the center of the AAFA Board of Directors leadership changes is the appointment of Joe Preston, President and CEO of New Balance Athletics, Inc., as Chair of the Board.
Preston is widely recognized for his leadership in the athletic footwear sector and for strengthening global manufacturing capabilities within the footwear industry. His experience in international operations, brand management, and sustainable manufacturing positions him to guide AAFA through a period of transformation for the fashion and textile industries.
The newly confirmed leadership team represents a diverse cross-section of the apparel and footwear sector, bringing together executives from global fashion brands, workwear companies, and supply chain organizations.
Chair – Joe Preston, New Balance Athletics, Inc.
Vice Chair – Danilo Amoretty, Carhartt, Inc.
Treasurer – Chris Volpe, United Legwear & Apparel Co.
Secretary – Sally Gilligan, Gap Inc.
Past Chair – Halide Alagöz, Ralph Lauren Corporation
Together, these leaders bring extensive experience in apparel manufacturing, retail strategy, and international supply chain operations. Their combined expertise will help AAFA continue advocating for policies that support innovation, trade expansion, and sustainable industry practices.
In addition to confirming the board leadership team, AAFA announced several newly elected directors who will serve a three-year term beginning April 1, 2026.
The addition of these executives strengthens the board’s representation across multiple segments of the fashion ecosystem, including digital-first apparel brands, lifestyle fashion labels, and global sourcing organizations.
Meera Bhatia – Fabletics
Jeffrey Goldfarb – G-III Apparel Group, Ltd.
Raj Palakshappa – Oxford Industries
Stuart Pond – VF Corporation
Lisa Williams – Eileen Fisher
These new members bring valuable perspectives on modern apparel business models, including direct-to-consumer retail strategies, global apparel manufacturing, and sustainability-focused fashion design.
Their presence on the board will contribute to more comprehensive discussions around supply chain innovation, digital retail transformation, and responsible sourcing practices.
Alongside the new board members, AAFA also confirmed the re-election of several experienced directors who will continue serving on the board for another three-year term.
These leaders represent major apparel brands, textile manufacturers, and global sourcing firms that play critical roles within the international fashion supply chain.
| Name | Company |
|---|---|
| Chris Alt | Elevate Textiles |
| Danilo Amoretty | Carhartt, Inc. |
| Oscar Feldenkreis | Perry Ellis International, Inc. |
| Mark Gitomer | Production Department |
| Lydia Ke | Luen Thai USA |
| Jason Kra | Li & Fung Ltd. |
| Alan Luchette | Marc Fisher Footwear |
| David Savman | PVH Corp |
| Chris Volpe | United Legwear & Apparel Co. |
Following his appointment as Chair, Joe Preston expressed enthusiasm about working with the AAFA leadership team to support the industry’s long-term growth.
Preston noted that AAFA has long served as a vital resource and advocate for companies operating across the apparel and footwear supply chain. He emphasized the importance of industry collaboration in addressing complex challenges such as trade policy shifts, sustainability requirements, and supply chain disruptions.
According to Preston, the board’s primary focus will be building a more resilient industry that can adapt to rapid global change while maintaining competitiveness in international markets.
The new leadership team intends to strengthen partnerships across brands, manufacturers, and policymakers to create a more harmonized and forward-looking industry strategy.
Steve Lamar, President and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, praised Preston’s leadership and recognized the contributions of outgoing chair Halide Alagöz.
Lamar noted that Preston has consistently challenged the AAFA team to pursue excellence while supporting initiatives that strengthen the overall apparel and footwear ecosystem.
At the same time, Lamar emphasized the important role played by Alagöz in guiding the industry through a year marked by unexpected challenges and supply chain disruptions.
Her leadership, he said, helped maintain trust and transparency within the organization and ensured that AAFA remained focused on advancing the industry’s long-term priorities.
The AAFA Board of Directors leadership changes come at a time when the apparel and footwear industry is navigating a series of complex global developments.
Manufacturing networks continue to evolve as brands diversify production locations to reduce risk and improve resilience. Companies are increasingly investing in digital supply chain technologies that provide real-time visibility and traceability.
Governments and regulatory agencies worldwide are introducing stricter environmental requirements for textile production. Apparel companies must address carbon emissions, waste reduction, and circular fashion initiatives.
Changes in international trade agreements and tariff structures continue to impact sourcing decisions for apparel brands and manufacturers.
Consumers increasingly expect brands to provide clear information about labor practices, ethical sourcing, and environmental impact.
Addressing these challenges will require coordinated leadership across the apparel ecosystem, making AAFA’s role as an industry advocate more important than ever.
During the 2026 Executive Summit, AAFA also presented its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to industry veteran Jerry Cook.
The award recognizes Cook’s decades of dedication to the apparel industry, including his contributions to leadership development, mentorship, and collaborative initiatives that have strengthened the global fashion supply chain.
Throughout his career, Cook has played an influential role in shaping industry practices and supporting the next generation of apparel executives.
His recognition at the summit highlights AAFA’s commitment to celebrating leaders whose work has had a lasting impact on the fashion and textile sectors.
The AAFA Board of Directors leadership changes represent more than a routine governance update. They signal a strategic effort to position the organization for the future of the global fashion industry.
As technological innovation, sustainability initiatives, and international trade dynamics continue to reshape the sector, the role of industry associations like AAFA will become increasingly important.
Under its newly appointed leadership, AAFA plans to focus on strengthening policy engagement, promoting responsible manufacturing practices, and supporting companies navigating an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
Through collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking leadership, the organization aims to help the apparel and footwear industry remain competitive and resilient in the years ahead.
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