Run specialty store franchisor Fleet Feet hired three new executives: Amy Diebler (CFO), Mary-Chelsea Banister (VP of supply chain transformation) and Kevin Staudt (VP of business operations).
Diebler joins Fleet Feet’s store support team, overseeing finance functions and strategic planning across Fleet Feet’s franchise, corporate and ecommerce businesses. Prior to joining Fleet Feet, she was the CFO of Verdesian Life Sciences, where she played a key role in business optimization and implementation of new business processes. Diebler also filled senior finance leadership roles with Chiesi USA, and spent 10 years as an advisor with Ernst & Young. She will report to Fleet Feet president and CEO, Joey Pointer.
“Amy has extensive financial and operational expertise leading large teams in high-growth businesses and understands how to operate efficiently at scale,” said Pointer. “Her passion for people development and process improvement will be invaluable as we continue to invest in enhancing our infrastructure, ultimately allowing us to support our franchisees as we expand into new markets.”
Banister, meanwhile, will oversee the corporate purchasing and merchandising team, led by Catherine Moloznik, as well as the business operations team. Her focus will be optimizing Fleet Feet’s operations while ensuring seamless, cross-departmental collaboration. Banister previously held omnichannel operations roles with Free Fly Apparel and Carter’s. She will also report to Pointer.
“With a deep background in supply chain management and a proven ability to drive transformative change, Mary-Chelsea brings invaluable expertise to Fleet Feet,” said Pointer. “I’m confident her innovative perspective will enhance our strategic direction moving forward.”
Finally, Staudt will lead Fleet Feet’s distribution center and transportation management operations, including system and process improvement. Prior to this role, Staudt was the VP of finance at Quality Restaurant Group. He also spent 14 years with Fleet Feet Chicago, one of the brand’s largest franchise businesses, in various capacities culminating in leading their finance functions, as well as brick-and-mortar and ecommerce fulfillment center operations. Staudt will report to Banister.
“It’s been a strong first half of the year for the company, with notable sales achievements in both our brick-and-mortar and online stores,” Pointer added. “During this period, we’ve managed to navigate through obstacles and still see record sales days and months. While we still have challenges ahead, we’re on pace for a successful year. Amy, Mary-Chelsea and Kevin are welcome additions to our leadership team as we work to maintain and build on our momentum.”
Diebler, Banister and Staudt’s appointments follow Fleet Feet’s announcement earlier this year of executive hires in IT and purchasing, and leadership expansions and promotions across business development, HR and marketing.
