Douglas Jakubowski departs Perry Ellis International

Perry Ellis has now lost its Chief Merchandising Officer. Douglas Jakubowski has left the position he has held for the last three and a half years to become president of FitFlop, a British footwear brand. One of his main initiatives in his new role will be helping the brand expand their North American footprint.

No replacement has been confirmed for Jakubowski yet, but Perry Ellis International President Oscar Feldenkreis has said that they are considering promoting from within. Jakubowski arrives at FitFlop with a rather impressive resumé. In addition to his time at Perry Ellis International, he spent six years as Chief Merchandising Officer for Kenneth Cole Productions, as well as serving as president of Kenneth Cole Reaction. He actually went to Kenneth Cole from Perry Ellis International, having served as Executive Vice President of Design and Merchandising for Perry Ellis Menswear from 1997 to 2003, and President of Perry Ellis Menswear from 2003 to 2005.

Jakubowski was restless to return to a position where he could be president again, and his departure from Perry Ellis International appears to be on amicable terms. While he has yet to announce his vision for FitFlop’s growing footprint rest assured that given his years of experience in the American fashion market something major is planned. If FitFlop needs someone who knows the American markets to help get them some attention he’s the perfect candidate.