Carter’s taps Vans veteran as CEO

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Howard Ruben

Fri, Mar 28, 2025, 6:11 AM 2 min read

Children’s apparel company Carter’s Inc. has named Douglas Palladini its CEO, effective April 3, according to a company press release.
Palladini succeeds interim CEO Richard Westenberger, who retains his previous positions as chief financial officer and chief operating officer. Westenberger took over for Michael Casey, the 15-year Carter’s veteran, who stepped down from his role in January.
A marketing and branding veteran, Palladini has over three decades of senior leadership experience, including as global brand president of Vans.

Dive Insight:

At Carter’s, Palladini will be tasked with guiding the brand’s direct-to-consumer and wholesale businesses, as well as its international expansion.

“Doug’s remarkable track record of growing brands, his deep understanding of consumer-driven strategies, and his expertise in creating global brand connections will be invaluable as we continue to build upon Carter’s strong foundation,” William Montgoris, Carter’s chairman of the board, said in a statement. “Under Doug’s leadership, Carter’s will continue to innovate, strengthen our unique, multi-channel business model, and stay true to our mission of providing high-quality, affordable apparel for young children.”

Carter’s focus on bringing new products to market are in keeping with what other brands in the space are looking to do. This month Target announced it was adding over 2,000 new baby and toddler items to its product mix, a 30% increase in new products compared to last year.

“I am eager to continue to advance the important work underway in our retail and wholesale businesses, further build upon Carter’s brand equity, and create lasting connections with our customers through accelerated relevance, inspiring products, and meaningful storytelling,” Palladini said in a statement.

Carter’s is coming off a down year in 2024, as net sales decreased 3.4% to $2.8 billion. The brand cited declines in its U.S. and international retail segments and suggested that inflation and high interest rates affected purchasing habits of young families.

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