Thom Gridley
Vice President of Global Design
Professional Overview
Thom Gridley is an accomplished design executive with over 25 years of experience in the footwear and apparel industry. As the Vice President of Global Design at HEYDUDE, he oversees the strategic direction and execution of the company's innovative product portfolio. Renowned for his expertise in design leadership, creative problem-solving, and driving brand transformation, Thom has played a pivotal role in shaping the design vision and commercial success of leading global brands.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Vice President of Global Design at HEYDUDE, Thom is responsible for spearheading the company's design strategy and driving the development of distinctive, market-leading products. He leads a team of talented designers and collaborates closely with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure HEYDUDE's design outputs consistently deliver on the brand's promise of comfort, style, and innovation.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Thom held various senior design leadership positions at PUMA Group, where he served as the Global Creative Director for Footwear & Apparel Design and the Global Head of Footwear and Apparel Design. In these roles, he was instrumental in elevating the brand's design aesthetic, enhancing product performance, and driving commercial success across global markets.
Thom's career journey also includes design leadership roles at Saucony, New Balance, and Vans, where he consistently demonstrated his ability to translate consumer insights into compelling product designs that resonate with target audiences. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his transformative impact on brand identities, his dedication to mentoring and developing design talent, and his commitment to driving sustainable design practices.
Academic Background
Thom holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Industrial Design from the Pratt Institute, where he honed his skills in design conceptualization, product development, and visual communication.
Areas of Expertise
- Footwear and apparel design leadership
- Brand transformation and design strategy
- Collaborative design process management
- Sustainability and responsible design practices
- Talent development and mentorship
Professional Impact
Notable achievements include leading the design of PUMA's best-selling product lines, spearheading the brand's sustainability initiatives, and establishing the Endeavor Design Scholarships to support the education of BIPOC individuals in the footwear and apparel industry.
Conclusion
Thom Gridley's extensive experience, design expertise, and strategic leadership make him a valuable asset to HEYDUDE as the company continues to push the boundaries of innovation and elevate its global design presence. With a proven track record of driving brand transformation and commercial success, Thom is well-positioned to guide HEYDUDE's design vision and contribute to its continued growth and market dominance.
