VF Corp. (Greensboro, N.C.) has named Karen Murray president of its sportswear coalition, overseeing the company’s Nautica and Kipling businesses in the U.S.
Murray joined VF in September 2007 as president of the Nautica men's sportswear and Nautica Jeans Co. business. Prior to that, she had spent 15 years at Liz Claiborne Inc. (New York), most recently as group president of menswear, mid-tier, international alliances and licensing.
Murray succeeds Denise Seegal, the former Liz Claiborne president who brought her to VF. She will report to VF president and ceo Eric Wiseman. “A proven leader with a track record of success in men’s sportswear, Karen has demonstrated exceptional leadership since joining VF and has brought fresh perspectives and energy to the business,” Wiseman said. “I have great confidence in the improvements Karen’s team is making in Nautica sportswear, and in her ability to execute our long term vision for the coalition.”
VF is best known as the world's largest jeans maker, producing Lee, Riders, Rustler, and Wrangler jeans. But its also makes JanSport, Eastpak, The North Face and Eagle Creek outdoor gear and apparel; Red Kap and Bulwark industrial work clothes; Nautica and John Varvatos men's and women's apparel; and Vans footwear.