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Matt Rubel brought his strategic leadership skills and extensive marketing, merchandising and business knowledge to Payless ShoeSource in June 2005. As CEO & President, Payless, Matt is leveraging the diverse talents of the Payless team to create an inspiring, customer-centric organization. Under his leadership, the company has a new mission to democratize fashion and design in footwear and accessories category to inspire fun fashion possibilities for the family.
With the culmination of the acquisition of Stride Rite and the official name change of the holding company to Collective Brands, Inc., Matt also serves as CEO of Collective Brands, Inc.
From 1999-2005, Matt was Chairman and CEO for Cole Haan, a leading marketer of high quality men’s and women’s shoes and accessories. At Cole Haan, he guided the company into a new era by re-energizing the brand and creating a strong global presence. During his time with Cole Haan, the company doubled in size and expanded its global foot print, positioning the company as a leading fashion brand.
Matt’s extensive merchandising and retailing background includes serving as Executive Vice President, J. Crew and CEO of Popular Club Plan from 1994 to 1999. In November 1998, he led the sale of Popular from J. Crew to Fingerhut, the largest independent direct marketer in the United States. While at J. Crew, Matt handled all licensing and international, as well as brand marketing. He also served on the Group Executive Committee.
Matt has led a number of other top brands. He served as President & CEO of Pepe Jeans USA and managed Revlon Inc.’s prestige cosmetic brands as President of the Specialty Store Division. Prior to Revlon, Matt was Executive Vice President of Murjani International Ltd., where he was in charge of all Tommy Hilfiger businesses.
Matt started his career at Bonwit Teller in New York after earning a bachelor of science degree from Ohio University in 1979. He earned an MBA from the University of Miami (FL) in 1980.
Matt and his wife, Melissa, reside in Mission, Kans., with their three sons. Matt is active in several industry and civic organizations, including the Jay H. Baker Initiative at the Wharton School University of Pennsylvania; Young Presidents’ Organization; President’s Council - University of Miami, Florida; Treasurer of the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America; and a member of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. | 