Sheamus Toal Joins Designer Brands as Chief Financial Officer to Drive Financial Strategy

Designer Brands Inc. Welcomes Sheamus Toal as New CFO

Designer Brands Inc., a leading name in the footwear and accessories retail sector, has recently announced the appointment of Sheamus Toal as their Chief Financial Officer, effective February 16, 2026. This strategic move aims to bolster the company's financial leadership and operational capabilities during a pivotal period of growth and transformation.

A Seasoned Executive Joins the Team

Sheamus Toal brings with him a wealth of experience in finance and operations, developed through years of executive leadership in both public and private companies. His previous roles include significant positions as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, where he successfully navigated complex corporate environments.

Doug Howe, CEO of Designer Brands, expressed confidence in Toal's capabilities, stating, "Sheamus offers a unique combination of financial acumen and operational management. His proven ability to lead organizations through critical transitions makes him an invaluable asset as we look to enhance our strategic initiatives."

Toal's most recent experience was with The Children's Place, where he excelled as both COO and CFO, leading finance operations for a substantial multi-brand retailer. His achievements there included optimizing a digital business model, enhancing profitability, and achieving significant cost reductions. Prior to that, he played a key role at Saatva.com as CFO, where he significantly boosted revenue and improved profitability metrics.

Vision for Designer Brands

Expressing enthusiasm for his new role, Toal said, "I am excited to join Designer Brands and collaborate with a talented leadership team at such an important time. My goal is to build on the strong financial foundation already established and support the company’s ambitious growth strategies."

As a major entity in the footwear industry, Designer Brands designs, produces, and retails various well-known footwear labels, including brands like Keds and Lucky Brand, serving customers through an extensive omni-channel platform. The company operates over 670 retail locations in North America and commands a billion-dollar e-commerce business, underscoring its prominence in the field.

Commitment to Social Impact

Beyond its commercial endeavors, Designer Brands is also deeply committed to social responsibility. The company has donated over twelve million pairs of shoes to the global non-profit Soles4Souls since 2018, reinforcing its dedication to making a positive impact in the community.

As Designer Brands Inc. continues to expand and adapt to the ever-evolving retail landscape, the addition of Sheamus Toal is expected to enhance its leadership structure and drive long-term value. His extensive experience and strategic insights will play a crucial role as the company advances its mission to redefine the footwear industry and sustain its trajectory of growth.

To learn more about Designer Brands and their initiatives, visit www.designerbrands.com.