Genesco Inc. is expanding the role of Journeys President Andy Gray, who will now lead as CEO a newly formed Global Retail Group that unites the company’s youth-focused footwear banners.
The new Journeys Global Retail Group will bring together Journeys, the U.K.-based schuh and Canada’s Little Burgundy under a unified leadership structure.
“With unified global leadership, we will maximize opportunities, strengthen market positioning with the consumer, and drive even greater growth with our brand partners,” said Mimi E. Vaughn, Genesco CEO, in a statement.
This move follows a successful turnaround effort led by Gray, who joined the company in January 2024. Journeys has seen four consecutive quarters of comparable sales growth, including a 9% increase in the most recent quarter. The teen retailer’s momentum has accelerated with double-digit comp increases at the start of the back-to-school season, parent company Genesco previously reported.
Chris Santaella has been promoted to chief merchandising officer, Journeys Global Retail Group. Photo courtesy of Genesco.
Gray’s strategy at Journeys has included revamping the merchandising assortment, exiting the apparel business to expand the footwear presentation, and rolling out a new “4.0” store format. The remodeled stores, which feature a more modern design and enhanced brand storytelling, have produced a sales lift of more than 25% in converted locations to date.
Prior to Genesco, Gray spent over 20 years at Foot Locker in various senior roles, including global president and chief commercial officer.
Also promoted is Chris Santaella, another Foot Locker veteran who joined Journeys in February 2024. Santaella has been named chief merchandising officer for the Journeys Global Retail Group, where he will oversee product strategies across the united banners.
“Andy and Chris are the right leaders for this new organization, building on their tremendous success in repositioning Journeys, their extensive experience in athletic and fashion footwear, their expansive brand partner relationships, and strong connection to youth culture,” Vaughn said.
Combined, Genesco operates more than 1,250 retail stores across North America, the U.K. and the Republic of Ireland.
