Susan Glynn
Vice President, Apparel Design and Development
San Francisco, California, United States
Professional Overview
Susan Glynn is an accomplished fashion and apparel design executive with over 25 years of experience driving product innovation and operational excellence. As the Vice President of Apparel Design and Development at Ariat International, she oversees a team of designers, developers, and merchandisers to conceptualize and deliver high-performance, trend-forward apparel collections for outdoor, athletic, and lifestyle markets.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As Vice President of Apparel Design and Development at Ariat International since 2002, Susan has spearheaded the company's global expansion and product diversification efforts. Under her leadership, Ariat has become a premier lifestyle brand known for its industry-leading technical features and fashion-forward aesthetic. Susan manages a team of over 50 designers, developers, and merchandisers to drive the strategic vision, creative direction, and operational execution of Ariat's apparel lines. She has played a pivotal role in growing the brand's revenue by 35% over the past five years through the successful launch of new product categories and market penetration in key international markets.
Career Progression
Prior to joining Ariat, Susan held various design and product management roles at leading outdoor and activewear brands. As Senior Product Developer at The North Face from 2000 to 2001, she collaborated cross-functionally to develop innovative fabrics and optimize manufacturing processes, contributing to a 20% increase in product quality and customer satisfaction. Earlier in her career, Susan served as a Product Manager and Designer at Ex Officio, where she spearheaded the brand's first-ever performance lifestyle collection, driving a 15% boost in market share.
Academic Background
Susan holds a Bachelor of Science in Textiles and Clothing from the University of California, Davis, where she graduated with Honors. She continued her education, earning a Master of Business Administration from the University of San Francisco, focusing on strategic brand management and international business development.
Areas of Expertise
- Apparel design and product development
- Fabric and materials innovation
- Global sourcing and supply chain optimization
- Brand strategy and positioning
- Cross-functional team leadership
- Omnichannel retail and e-commerce strategy
Professional Impact
During her tenure at Ariat, Susan has been instrumental in strengthening the brand's reputation for technical excellence and design innovation. She has led the development of several award-winning apparel collections, including the brand's first-ever sustainable activewear line, which was recognized by the Outdoor Industry Association for its environmental impact. Additionally, Susan has been an active participant in industry associations, serving on the advisory board of the Textile Exchange and presenting at numerous fashion and design conferences, sharing her expertise and insights on the future of the apparel industry.
Conclusion
With her proven track record of driving product innovation, operational efficiency, and brand growth, Susan Glynn is a respected leader in the apparel design and development industry. Her strategic vision, collaborative approach, and commitment to excellence have positioned Ariat as a trusted, innovative, and socially responsible brand. As she continues to guide the company's design and development efforts, Susan is poised to further cement Ariat's position as a global leader in performance-driven, fashion-forward apparel.
