Levi Strauss & Co. announced the appointment of Jude Celedin as the new general manager for its operations in Australia and New Zealand. The appointment, effective July 22, 2024, marks a significant step for the iconic denim brand as it focuses on driving sustainable growth in the ANZ market and advancing its direct-to-consumer approach.
SEE ALSO: Azura Fashion Group: Shaping the future of fashion retail through tech and sustainability
In his new role, Jude Celedin will take the reins in steering the growth of Levi Strauss & Co.’s brands, including Levi’s, within the Australia and New Zealand region.
Celedin’s responsibilities will revolve around bolstering the company’s direct-to-consumer strategy to enhance its foothold in these key markets, the company said in a press statement.
Nuholt Huisamen, senior vice president and managing director for East Asia Pacific at Levi Strauss & Co., cited Celedin’s deep understanding of the ANZ market as crucial assets for the company’s growth strategy in the region.
“His solid track record in the marketplace, category, and channel, coupled with his extensive knowledge of the ANZ market, make him the ideal candidate to drive our DTC-first strategy in this key growth region,” Huisamen said.
Celedin’s previous roles include heading customer experience at Wesfarmers CSBP Fertilisers, where he drove significant improvements in sales and customer service functions. Prior to that, he held key leadership positions at Nike, where he played a pivotal role in the growth of the global Nike Women’s business.
SEE ALSO: Nestlé appoints new CEO on Mark Schneider ousting
Said Celedin: “I am honoured to be joining LS&Co. as the company doubles down on its DTC-first strategy globally. I’m excited to work together with my talented colleagues in Australia and New Zealand to further establish Levi’s® as a leading denim lifestyle brand.”
With a presence in over 110 countries through various retail channels, Levi Strauss & Co. reported net revenues of USD6.2 billion in 2023.