Designer Brands Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Designer Brands has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, human resources, merchandise planning, and group operations.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Designer Brands stands as a premier footwear and accessories enterprise, shaping market trends through strategic design, production, and retail excellence.

Leadership Roles at Designer Brands

  • Chief Executive Officer - Douglas Howe
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Sheamus Toal
  • Senior Vice President, Segment Chief Financial Officer and Merchandise Planning - Dustin Hauenstein
  • Vice Chairman DBI, President Camuto Group - Deborah Ferree
  • Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP - Amy Donohew
  • Douglas Howe - Chief Executive Officer

    Douglas Howe, the Chief Executive Officer at Designer Brands, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution for one of North America's largest footwear and accessories companies. Howe's leadership focuses on driving market expansion and enhancing the company's retail and production capabilities. Overseeing all major business units, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the company's mission to deliver exceptional value and style to consumers. This executive role involves steering the organization through dynamic market shifts, fostering innovation in product development, and optimizing the supply chain for maximum efficiency. By setting ambitious performance benchmarks, Douglas Howe guides the enterprise toward sustained growth and market leadership in the competitive retail landscape.

    Sheamus Toal - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Sheamus Toal, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Designer Brands, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the expansive retail organization. Toal's responsibilities encompass financial planning, capital allocation, investor relations, and risk management, ensuring the company's financial health and stability. Overseeing the finance department, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer provides critical insights that inform strategic decision-making across all segments of the business. This leadership position involves optimizing financial performance, driving profitability, and maintaining robust internal controls. Through meticulous financial oversight, Sheamus Toal supports the company's growth initiatives and strengthens its position as a leading designer, producer, and retailer of footwear and accessories.
    Sheamus Toal

    Dustin Hauenstein - Senior Vice President, Segment Chief Financial Officer and Merchandise Planning

    Dustin Hauenstein, the Senior Vice President, Segment Chief Financial Officer and Merchandise Planning at Designer Brands, spearheads financial oversight and strategic merchandise planning for key business segments. Hauenstein's role integrates financial acumen with deep market understanding to optimize product assortment and inventory management. Overseeing financial operations and planning for specific segments, the Senior Vice President, Segment Chief Financial Officer and Merchandise Planning ensures profitability and efficient resource allocation. This executive function is vital for aligning product offerings with consumer demand and market trends, directly impacting sales performance and inventory turnover. Through rigorous analysis and forward-looking planning, Dustin Hauenstein drives financial success and strategic product positioning for Designer Brands.

    Deborah Ferree - Vice Chairman DBI, President Camuto Group

    Deborah Ferree, the Vice Chairman DBI, President Camuto Group at Designer Brands, holds a pivotal position overseeing the strategic direction and operational leadership of the Camuto Group. Ferree's responsibilities encompass driving growth, managing brand portfolios, and ensuring the integration of the Camuto Group's operations within the broader Designer Brands framework. Leading the Camuto Group, the Vice Chairman DBI, President Camuto Group focuses on enhancing brand value and market presence through innovative product development and strategic partnerships. This executive leadership role is crucial for navigating the complexities of the footwear and accessories market, optimizing supply chain dynamics, and expanding market reach. By providing seasoned guidance, Deborah Ferree significantly contributes to the overall success and strategic objectives of Designer Brands.

    Amy Donohew - Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP

    Amy Donohew, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP at Designer Brands, leads all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives. Donohew's purview includes talent acquisition, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive corporate culture across the enterprise. Overseeing the HR function, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP ensures that the company's workforce is equipped with the skills and motivation necessary to achieve business objectives. This critical role involves developing programs that attract, retain, and develop top talent, thereby supporting the company's operational excellence and market expansion. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Amy Donohew cultivates a high-performing team essential for Designer Brands' continued success.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Apparel & Accessories Retail

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Designer Brands Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Designer Brands?
    Designer Brands is led by Douglas Howe (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sheamus Toal (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Dustin Hauenstein (Senior Vice President, Segment Chief Financial Officer and Merchandise Planning).
    Who is part of Designer Brands’s executive team?
    The executive team of Designer Brands includes leaders such as Douglas Howe (Chief Executive Officer), Sheamus Toal (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Dustin Hauenstein (Senior Vice President, Segment Chief Financial Officer and Merchandise Planning) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Designer Brands have?
    Designer Brands has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Designer Brands’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Designer Brands includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President, Segment Chief Financial Officer and Merchandise Planning, Vice Chairman DBI, President Camuto Group, Chief Human Resources Officer & Senior VP.