Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Pete Lankford is a seasoned design executive with over 20 years of experience in the footwear and apparel industry. As the Vice President of Design at Eastland Shoe, he is responsible for leading the company's design vision and driving innovative product development across its diverse portfolio.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Vice President of Design at Eastland Shoe, Pete is responsible for overseeing the entire design process, from concept to production. He collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the successful execution of design strategies that align with the brand's vision and cater to the evolving needs of its customer base. Under his leadership, Eastland Shoe has seen a significant increase in market share and recognition for its sustainable and stylish footwear offerings.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Pete was the Founder and Director of Lankford Design, a boutique design consultancy where he provided strategic guidance and creative solutions to a diverse range of clients in the footwear and apparel industries. Before that, he held various design leadership positions at Erem and Timberland, where he was instrumental in the development of successful product lines and the integration of sustainability initiatives into the design process.
Academic Background
Pete holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Industrial Design from the Rhode Island School of Design, where he graduated with honors.
Areas of Expertise
- Footwear and apparel design
- Sustainable design and production
- Brand strategy and product positioning
- Cross-functional team leadership
- Design process optimization
- Trend analysis and forecasting
Professional Impact
During his tenure at Timberland, Pete played a pivotal role in the development of the Earthkeepers and Timberland Boot Company lines, which became industry-leading examples of sustainable and heritage-inspired footwear. At Erem, he led the design and sustainability efforts, resulting in the launch of several award-winning, environmentally-conscious product collections.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, creative vision, and commitment to sustainable design, Pete Lankford is poised to continue driving Eastland Shoe's growth and innovation in the footwear industry. His proven track record of success and his ability to inspire cross-functional teams make him a valuable asset to the company and its customers.
