Shinola Detroit has named Shannon Washburn (pictured) its new chief executive officer.
She is the company’s first female CEO. She currently serves as the company’s president and will continue in that role
She replaces Tom Lewand, the former Detroit Lions president who resigned as company CEO last week for an unspecified “new professional role.”
Washburn first joined Shinola in 2012 as director of watch development. Prior to joining Shinola, Washburn worked for Fossil for 14 years, which was also started by the founder of Shinola, Tom Kartsotis. Before that, she was a buyer for Dillard’s, the department store chain. She was promoted to president in 2018, taking over from Jacques Panis, who had been with the company since its inception.
She will report to Kartsotis.
“Shannon and I have worked together for three decades,” said Kartsotis in a statement. “Her development as an executive has been predicated on long-term, consistent performance. Her understanding of all aspects of the business is second to nobody that I know. I am convinced that she will be an excellent CEO. From a personal perspective, Shannon and I have supported each other in so many ways over these years. Her experience, passion, and commitment combined with her knowledge of and love for the Shinola brand will bring tremendous value to our board of directors.”
Said Washburn in a statement, ” I am honored to be offered the position of CEO. Shinola has been a place of professional growth for me, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to play a key role in the brand’s journey. I look forward to the challenges ahead as our business evolves.”
Shinola started as a watch brand, but it has since expanded into jewelry, leather goods, audio products, bicycles. handbags, and a hotel in its home city of Detroit.
(Image courtesy of Shinola Detroit)
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