The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) has named Gary Simmons, director of US fashion firm Intradeco Apparel, as its new chairman.

Simmons was confirmed as AAFA chairman for the 2019-2020 term at the conclusion of the group’s Executive Summit last week. He succeeds Thomas Glaser, vice president of US apparel giant VF Corporation, and president of the group’s global supply chain, who has completed his one-year term. 

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“The apparel and footwear industry finds itself in a time of great transition, and having a strong collective voice in Washington and around the world is as important now as it has ever been,” Simmons said. “I am excited to take over the role of chairman, and look forward to a progress-filled year ahead.”

Rick Helfenbein, president and CEO of the American Apparel and Footwear Association, added: “Gary Simmons has been an invaluable member of the board of directors for several years now, and it is with great excitement that we welcome him as chairman of the AAFA board of directors. 

“Tom Glaser’s leadership during the past year has resulted in several milestones for AAFA. From developing a new strategic plan to providing his expertise on our policy initiatives, he has left the association in a better place than he found it. We will be eternally grateful to him, and look forward to his continued input on the Executive Committee.”

The AAFA’s Board of Directors leadership for the 2019-2020 term also includes Colin Browne, chief supply chain officer at Under Armour, as vice-chairman; Sarah Clarke, executive vice president, PVH Supply, PVH Corp, as secretary; and Kurt Cavano, technology and supply chain evangelist at Infor, as treasurer.

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In addition, 16 new and re-elected board members were announced including Richard Darling of Global Brands Group; Kellie Davies Brown of Target Corporation; Edward Gribbin of Alvanon Inc; and James Schwartz of MGF Sourcing.

New Balance Athletics’ Joe Preston and Doug Freeman of Patagonia were elected as new board members.

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