Kenneth Cole names new CEO and leadership team

Kenneth Cole Productions has appointed Jed Berger as chief executive officer and president, marking the start of a new leadership era for the American fashion brand.

The announcement comes alongside a broader leadership transition, with founder Kenneth Cole remaining as executive chairman and chief creative officer of both Kenneth Cole Productions and the Mental Health Coalition.

“I am proud to announce the evolution of our organization—one that is built to meet the changing forces the world continues to offer. Innovation, in both product and purpose, has never been more important,” said Kenneth Cole. “I am confident that this next chapter will honor our roots while empowering this new team to evolve the brand and the business in bold, meaningful ways.” 

In addition to Berger’s appointment, Emily Cole has been named executive vice president, chief product officer, and creative director, overseeing product design, styling and strategy. Lauren Montemaro Kahn joins as senior vice president, chief commercial officer, leading business development and partnerships in domestic and international markets. Lastly, Phillips McCarty has been appointed president of the Mental Health Coalition and a member of the Kenneth Cole Advisory Board.

Samantha Cohen will continue in her role as senior vice president, chief marketing and social impact officer, Renada Williams, as senior vice president, general counsel and chief people officer, and David Edelman as executive vice president, chief financial officer. 

The company also acknowledged the retirement of Sharon Seelig after more than 30 years of service.