Account Executive

About Designer Brands 

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.

The Opportunity

At Designer Brands, we don’t just sell shoes—we shape experiences. As an Account Executive, you’ll be at the heart of our wholesale business, building meaningful relationships and driving growth across our brand portfolio. This role is perfect for someone who thrives on strategy, collaboration, and the thrill of seeing their work come to life in stores across the country.

You’ll be the connector between our customers and our internal teams, translating insights into action and ensuring our products meet market needs while staying true to our brand identity.

What You’ll Be Doing

Customer & Relationship Management

• Cultivate and grow relationships with new and existing wholesale customers.
• Partner with buyers to curate assortments tailored to each account’s unique needs.
• Communicate regularly with store-level management to gather feedback and insights.

Sales Strategy & Forecasting

• Analyze account performance through detailed forecasts and reports.
• Monitor sales and shipping metrics to ensure goals are met.
• Collaborate with planning and customer service teams to establish cost-effective shipping strategies.

Profitability & Inventory Optimization

• Work with planners to manage account P&Ls and markdown projections.
• Develop strategies to maximize profitability and minimize liabilities.
• Identify alternative outlets for slow-moving inventory and propose markdown solutions.

Market Engagement & Brand Representation

• Conduct store visits and competitive shopping to stay ahead of market trends.
• Prepare and present at shoe shows and regional events.
• Collaborate with brand leaders to align product offerings with market demands.

Product Development & Collaboration 

• Participate in sketch review presentations with DSW teams to guide future development.
• Ensure sourcing of affordable materials and constructions that maintain brand integrity.

Operational Excellence

• Manage drop ship account setup and ongoing maintenance.
• Track and oversee sample orders and shipping logistics.

What You’ll Need

Skills & Strengths

• A proactive mindset with the ability to work independently.
• Strong analytical skills and retail math proficiency to drive strategic decisions.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• A collaborative spirit and flexibility to work across teams.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
• Professional presence and a customer-first approach.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.

Experience & Education

• Experience: 7+ years in footwear/accessory wholesale sales.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in footwear/accessory sales.

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy!  

• Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi. 

• Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work. 

• Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives. 

• We are Shoe-Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & DSW.com, plus discounts across our family of brands.