Brendan Hoffman joined Wolverine Worldwide as President in September 2020 with oversight of the company’s brands and direct to consumer business, reporting directly to Krueger. Hoffman’s initial focus has been pursuing growth initiatives across Wolverine Worldwide’s brands and digital operations, with one of his primary objectives being to drive the company’s bold eCommerce revenue goal of 500 million US dollars for 2021, doubling 2019 levels.

“I would like to thank Blake and the Board for their support and the opportunity to lead Wolverine Worldwide into its next phase of global growth. It’s been a privilege to work closely with Blake over the past year and I have gained tremendous knowledge of the industry and the unique strengths of the company’s global brand portfolio. Blake has truly transformed the company during his tenure, and it is an honour to be entrusted with building on this incredible foundation, working with an industry-leading team, and capitalizing on the many opportunities ahead for Wolverine Worldwide. I look forward to continuing our partnership as we step into our new roles”, stated Mr. Hoffman.

With the announced change, Blake Krueger will become Executive Chairman, continuing to lead Wolverine Worldwide’s Board of Directors and partnering with Hoffman on key international and strategic initiatives. According to the statement of the company, Under Krueger’s leadership as CEO, "Wolverine Worldwide has transformed from a traditional footwear wholesaler into a consumer-obsessed, digital-focused growth company with one of the world’s largest portfolios of footwear and lifestyle brands". He led the company’s acquisitions of the Merrell, Saucony, Sperry, Stride Rite, Keds, and Chaco brands, opening up new market segments and consumer territories. During his tenure the company expanded its international distribution to more than 170 countries and territories, increased revenue to well over 2 billion US dollars and market capitalization by 30-fold, and grew the brand portfolio into a global industry-leading powerhouse.

“Blake has been a leader in the footwear industry for almost three decades, and it’s been an honour to work closely with him and the Wolverine Worldwide team during his tenure”, commented David T. Kollat, Lead Independent Director for Wolverine Worldwide since 2007 and a Director since 1992. “On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Blake for his passion, dedication, and exceptional leadership as CEO of Wolverine Worldwide. We will continue to benefit from his expertise and experience in his new role as Executive Chairman, and we are grateful for his work in preparing for a smooth CEO transition. In his time with the company, Brendan has proven to be an impactful leader with a strong understanding of our most significant opportunities in the global marketplace, and we believe the Company is well-positioned for continued success under his leadership”, Mr. Kollat concluded.

Krueger noted: “It has been an honour and privilege to serve Wolverine Worldwide for the past 28 years, working with and helping to build an amazing and impactful global team, brand portfolio, and footwear and lifestyle mainstay. I look forward to continuing my work with Wolverine Worldwide and the Board in my new role as Executive Chairman. I am confident that the company is in great hands and will have continued growth as Brendan takes over as the new CEO.”