The American Apparel & Footwear Association announced New Balance CEO Joe Preston as its board chairman as part of several leadership changes at its industry executive summit.
Preston will hold a term that begins in April through 2027 and will be joined by SVP Product Supply and Operations at Carhartt, Inc., who will serve as vice chair.
The moves were unveiled at the conclusion of AAPA’s annual meeting last Friday in Washington, D.C.
“I’m excited to work alongside the AAFA team to chart a clear, harmonized path toward a stronger and more resilient apparel and footwear industry,” Preston said. “Throughout my career, AAFA has been an invaluable resource and steady advocate for our community. I look forward to building on that foundation and helping advance the positive, impactful work the team continues to deliver.”
The other board appointments include Chris Volpe, United Legwear & Apparel Co. (treasurer), Sally Gilligan, Gap, Inc. (secretary) and Halide Alagöz, Ralph Lauren Corporation (past chair) and will join Preston as part of AAPA’s team.
“For years, Joe Preston has challenged the AAFA team to strive for excellence while serving as a driving force in strengthening the entire apparel and footwear industry. As we prepare to navigate another year of twists and turns, we are fortunate to have his steady leadership guiding the way,” Steve Lamar, AAPA president and CEO said. “At the same time, we would not be where we are today without the exceptional leadership of Halide Alagöz. Her voice helped steer our industry through unforeseen challenges this year with trust and transparency. Her enduring legacy as a leader continues to shape our strategic direction and position us to achieve our goals for the future.”
AAPA also revealed additional board appointments with each member set to serve three-year terms that start on April 1:
The following individuals were elected and re-elected to the Board of Directors for a three year term beginning April 1, 2026:
Newly elected:
Meera Bhatia, Fabletics
Jeffrey Goldfarb, G-III Apparel Group, Ltd.
Raj Palakshappa, Oxford Industries
Stuart Pond, VF Corporation
Lisa Williams, Eileen Fisher
Re-elected:
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.
