Designer Brands Inc. announced that Doug Howe has been named Executive Vice President of Designer Brands. Howe's appointment brings continued strength and momentum to Designer Brands putting customers, brands and speed at the forefront of the retailer's 519 U.S. store locations and direct-to-consumer channels. As President of DSW, Doug will be responsible for day-to-day leadership of the company and bringing DSW's differentiated customer experience and desired brands to life across direct-to-consumer channels.

Doug will report directly to Designer Brands' CEO Roger Rawlins, and his appointment is effective in late May. Howe is a 30+ year retail veteran with deep experience in vertical and national brand building and direct-to-consumer growth. He most recently served as Chief Merchandising Officer at Kohl's, and held prior leadership positions across merchandising, design, product development and planning at Qurate Retail Group, Old Navy, Walmart and May Department Stores.