Roger L. Rawlins served as the CEO of Designer Brands Inc. from January 2016 until April 2023. He's been with the company for over 16 years, holding various roles, including Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer. Roger started out...

Roger L. Rawlins served as the CEO of Designer Brands Inc. from January 2016 until April 2023. He's been with the company for over 16 years, holding various roles, including Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer. Roger started out in finance but quickly moved to operations and online management, showcasing his adaptability in a changing retail landscape. During his tenure as CEO, he faced several challenges, like the impact of COVID-19 on the retail sector, which significantly affected company performance. In 2020, he was awarded a total compensation of over $12 million, largely due to vested stock awards as part of his retention strategy amid the pandemic. However, his compensation fluctuated greatly, with a notable decline to around $1.04 million in 2023 due to performance metrics not being met. Roger left a structured severance plan, extending certain benefits post-employment. His strategic vision helped shape Designer Brands into a notable player in the footwear industry, emphasizing a cohesive omni-channel experience for customers. Now, he offers consulting services to assist during this transition in leadership.