27 Jun 2025 FDRA Welcomes Dynamic New Leadership Team to Guide the Footwear Industry Forward
FDRA Welcomes Dynamic New Leadership Team to Guide the Footwear Industry Forward
Washington D.C. — The Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA), the footwear industry’s premier trade organization, is proud to announce the appointment of its new Board leadership for the 2025–2027 term. The newly elected leadership includes Josue Solano, CEO of BBC International, as Chairman of the Board; Dan Friedman, Chief Sourcing and Supply Chain Officer at Caleres, as Vice Chairman; and Lisa Tucker, President of SHOE SHOW, INC., as Treasurer.
As Chairman, Josue Solano will provide strategic oversight and vision to FDRA, which represents over 97% of the footwear industry—including retailers, brands, and manufacturers. With over two decades of experience in the industry and a deep understanding of global sourcing, supply chain management, and corporate strategy, Josue will bring impactful leadership to the board.
Josue is excited to get started. “FDRA is a vital force in our industry, and I’m honored to help shape the future of footwear alongside such an innovative and committed leadership team. From tackling tariff challenges to enhancing industry collaboration, I look forward to working on the issues that matter most to our members.”
Matt Priest, President and CEO of FDRA, celebrated the announcement, stating, “Josue’s strategic acumen and deep industry knowledge make him the ideal leader for this moment. His commitment to innovation and his global perspective will help steer the industry through an increasingly complex business environment. We are thrilled to welcome him as Chairman.”
The incoming board is supported in the transition by current board members and outgoing Chair and current Vice President, Government and Public Affairs at Nike, Inc., Jennifer Bendall.
Other notable new board members include Sara Hoverstock, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Crocs, Jonathan Frankel, President, Aldo, Gautham Rao, Vice President & General Manager, Americas, Timberland, and Todd Krinsky, President & CEO, Reebok
Together, this leadership team brings diverse experience and fresh perspectives to FDRA’s mission. They are united in their commitment to strengthening the global footwear supply chain, improving member business operations, driving sales, and equipping members with innovative tools for continued success.
Visit the FDRA website for more information. To schedule an interview with Matt Priest on the state of the footwear industry, please email fdracomms@cgagroup.com.
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About FDRA FDRA is governed and directed by footwear executives and is the only trade organization focused solely on the industry. Serving the full footwear supply chain, it boosts its members’ bottom lines through innovative products, training, consulting on footwear design and development, sourcing and compliance, trade and customs, advocacy, and consumer and sales trend analysis for shoe retailers around the world. FDRA supports 500 companies and brands worldwide, representing 95% of the total U.S. footwear industry. Learn more: fdra.org