By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Perry Ellis International has tapped former Hudson’s Bay and Steve Madden executive Liz Rodbell to serve as group president of Perry Ellis International.
“Perry Ellis International holds an enduring position across men’s and women’s lifestyle categories,” said Rodbell. “I look forward to partnering with Oscar, our divisional leaders, and the talented teams in New York and Miami to build upon the momentum of these iconic brands, strengthen our retail partnerships, and deliver compelling product strategies to today’s consumer.”
In what is a new post for PEI, Rodbell will be based in New York and will oversee key lifestyle divisions while driving long-term strategic growth and brand elevation across the portfolio.
“I have had the privilege of knowing Liz for more than 15 years, sharing both a valued personal friendship and a deeply collaborate collaborative business relationship,” said Perry Ellis CEO Oscar Feldenkreis. “She is a recognized powerhouse and widely respected leader in our industry.
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“Liz’s command of product, brand equity, and retail dynamics will be instrumental in executing our strategic vision, accelerating divisional growth, and continuing the elevation of our global portfolio.”
Feldenkreis noted that Rodbell brings a lengthy and well-established record of merchandising skills, retail transformation, and brand leadership.
Rodbell most recently was the founder and principal adviser of LHR Advisors. Before that, she was president and CEO of Hudson’s Bay from December 2023 to June 2025, and earlier was group president of Steve Madden from 2018 to 2022.
From 2013 to 2018, Rodbell was president of Lord & Taylor and Hudson’s Bay. She was promoted to the position after holding senior posts such as executive vice president/chief merchant, Lord & Taylor and Hudson’s Bay, and executive vice president of merchandising, Lord & Taylor. She joined Lord & Taylor as a dress buyer in 1985 and quickly rose through the ranks.
In her new position, Rodbell will be responsible for top brands like Perry Ellis, Original Penguin, Laundry by Shelli Segal, and Rafaella. She reports to Feldenkreis, who is based in Miami.
Rodbell said that PEI is having some strong traction and impressive growth with its products.
“Perry Ellis, the namesake of the company, is really driving tremendous business, and we want to grow the women’s business,” she said. “The Original Penguin is unique in its international presence and has opportunities too.”
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