American Apparel, Los Angeles, has announced that Marty Staff has stepped down as chief business development officer, effective immediately. Staff, who joined the company in March of this year, did not state why he was leaving the company but told Bloomberg Businessweek that he is “ready to move on and fully exploit my talents.”
“I have enjoyed my time at American Apparel and believe my contributions are part of the reason we are currently seeing growth in all segments of our business,” Staff said in a statement. “I believe strongly that this company, with its unique business model, loyal customer base and commitment to American manufacturing, is one of the truly innovative companies in our industry today and is well-positioned to succeed going forward.”
Staff was brought onto the American Apparel executive team during a period of change for the company. A month earlier American Apparel had hired John Luttrell as the new chief financial officer, and rumors about the company circulated in April following a 2010 regulatory filing that showed an $86.3 million net loss for the year.
As chief business development officer, Staff has been involved in a number of initiatives that have seen the company stabilize and increase sales. Some of the new business ventures include a partnership with eBay to create an online store, the creation of a denim line and an expanded presence in Europe. Earlier this month, the company announced store sales rose three percent and wholesale sales rose 10 percent for the month of September.
“Marty is one of the most experienced and capable professionals in our business and his contributions to American Apparel have been very substantial,” said Dov Charney, chief executive officer of American Apparel. “I have benefited greatly from his vision and insight. Marty is truly a dynamic figure in our industry and I wish him all the best as he moves to the next chapter of his iconic career.”
Prior to working at American Apparel, Staff was president and chief executive officer of JA Apparel Corp. (owner of the Joseph Abboud brand); president and chief executive officer of Hugo Boss Fashions Inc.; president and chief operating officer of Calvin Klein Fashions Inc.; and vice president of sales and marketing at Polo Ralph Lauren.
American Apparel said Staff will remain on as an advisor during a transition period. At this time the company has not named an immediate successor.
For more information, visit American Apparel’s website.
