Leadership Overview
Vans has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, operations, information technology, finance, business partnership, brand leadership, and global brand direction.
Driven by a commitment to authentic self-expression, Vans champions creativity and individuality through its iconic footwear and apparel, fostering a global community of action sports enthusiasts and creative individuals.
Driven by a commitment to authentic self-expression, Vans champions creativity and individuality through its iconic footwear and apparel, fostering a global community of action sports enthusiasts and creative individuals.
Leadership Roles at Vans
Martin Van Lonso - Chief Executive Officer
Martin Van Lonso, the Chief Executive Officer at Vans, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational framework. Overseeing all major business units, Martin Van Lonso ensures alignment with the company's foundational mission of supporting creativity and action sports culture. This leadership position involves guiding the executive team in navigating market dynamics and identifying opportunities for sustainable growth across global territories. By fostering a culture of innovation, Martin Van Lonso drives the company's expansion into new product categories and geographic regions, solidifying Vans' position as a leader in the lifestyle footwear and apparel market. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to managing key stakeholder relationships and championing the brand's core values throughout the organization.
Scott Blechman - Chief Financial Officer
Scott Blechman, the Chief Financial Officer at Vans, directs the company's financial planning, reporting, and investment strategies. Overseeing all fiscal operations, including accounting, treasury, and financial analysis, Scott Blechman ensures the financial health and stability of the organization. This position is crucial for guiding strategic financial decisions, managing capital allocation, and optimizing profitability. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and providing insightful analysis, the Chief Financial Officer supports informed decision-making across the executive team. Scott Blechman's leadership ensures compliance with financial regulations and drives initiatives aimed at maximizing shareholder value. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include budgeting, forecasting, and managing relationships with financial institutions.
Raiarii Cheung - Chief Operating Officer
Raiarii Cheung, the Chief Operating Officer at Vans, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and supply chain logistics. Overseeing global production, distribution, and retail operations, Raiarii Cheung ensures seamless execution of business processes to meet market demand. This critical function involves optimizing resource allocation and implementing best practices to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs. By driving operational excellence, the Chief Operating Officer supports the company's ability to deliver high-quality products to consumers across diverse geographic markets. Raiarii Cheung's focus on streamlining operations contributes directly to the company's overall profitability and market responsiveness. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities encompass inventory management, logistics network optimization, and ensuring compliance with operational standards.
Susie Esparza - Senior Executive Business Partner To Global Brand President
Susie Esparza, the Senior Executive Business Partner To Global Brand President at Vans, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the Global Brand President. Overseeing key projects and initiatives, Susie Esparza facilitates seamless communication and execution across various brand departments. This role is essential in ensuring that the Global Brand President's vision is effectively translated into actionable plans and operational outcomes. By managing critical workflows and stakeholder engagements, the Senior Executive Business Partner To Global Brand President enhances the efficiency and impact of the brand leadership. Susie Esparza's contributions are vital in driving strategic alignment and supporting the overall brand development objectives for Vans globally. The Senior Executive Business Partner To Global Brand President's duties include project management and executive-level administrative support.
John VanNess - President
John VanNess, the President at Vans, oversees significant segments of the company's business operations and strategic development. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and ensuring operational effectiveness across designated business areas. By collaborating with other executive leaders, John VanNess contributes to the formulation and execution of corporate strategies that align with Vans' core mission. The President's responsibilities include fostering key partnerships and identifying new market opportunities to expand the brand's reach. John VanNess's leadership ensures that operational plans are robust and contribute to the company's long-term success and market positioning. The President's focus is on driving performance and achieving strategic objectives within their areas of oversight.
Sun Choe - Global Brand President
Sun Choe, the Global Brand President at Vans, directs the comprehensive strategy and execution of the Vans brand worldwide. Overseeing all aspects of brand management, product innovation, and consumer engagement, Sun Choe ensures a cohesive and impactful brand presence across all global markets. This pivotal role is responsible for shaping the brand's narrative and maintaining its authentic connection with core consumers and emerging audiences. By championing creative direction and strategic marketing, the Global Brand President drives brand equity and market leadership. Sun Choe's leadership is instrumental in translating the brand's heritage into future growth opportunities, reinforcing Vans' commitment to empowering creativity and individuality. The Global Brand President's purview includes global marketing, product merchandising, and brand partnerships.

Drieke Leenknegt - Chief Marketing Officer
Drieke Leenknegt, the Chief Marketing Officer at Vans, architects and executes comprehensive global marketing strategies. Overseeing brand communications, digital engagement, and product marketing initiatives, Drieke Leenknegt ensures the consistent articulation of Vans' brand identity across all consumer touchpoints. This role is critical in connecting with the core action sports and youth culture demographics through authentic storytelling and community-focused campaigns. By driving innovative marketing programs, the Chief Marketing Officer enhances brand visibility and cultivates deep consumer loyalty. Drieke Leenknegt's leadership ensures that marketing efforts directly support sales objectives and reinforce Vans' commitment to empowering creative self-expression worldwide. The Chief Marketing Officer's purview includes managing advertising, social media, and experiential marketing efforts.

Joe Shulzo - Chief Information Officer
Joe Shulzo, the Chief Information Officer at Vans, leads the company's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, cybersecurity, and data management, Joe Shulzo ensures that technology solutions effectively support business objectives and enhance operational capabilities. This role is pivotal in driving digital transformation initiatives, including the development and maintenance of e-commerce platforms and internal systems. By implementing robust IT frameworks, the Chief Information Officer safeguards company data and enables efficient information flow across departments. Joe Shulzo's leadership ensures that Vans leverages technology to improve customer experiences and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving retail landscape. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing technology investments and fostering innovation in digital solutions.
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