Jared Poff Steps Down as Designer Brands CFO After 10 Years at Company

After more than a decade with DSW parent company Designer Brands, Jared Poff is leaving his role as executive vice president, chief financial officer and chief administrative officer.

The footwear company noted in a statement that Poff has resigned to pursue a new professional opportunity. His last day will be Oct. 31.

According to Designer Brands, Poff has served as EVP and CFO since October 2018, and CAO since March 2023. He joined the company in 2015 and held roles like VP of finance and business development. Prior to joining Designer Brands, Poff served as VP and treasurer at Big Lots since February 2004.

Doug Howe, CEO of Designer Brands, thanked Poff for his “significant contributions to the company in a statement on Wednesday. “We wish him continued success in his future endeavors,” Howe said.

With his exit, Mark Haley, the company’s SVP, controller and principal accounting officer since 2019, has been named interim principal financial officer, effective Nov. 1.

The company stated that Haley will work in close partnership with Poff as well as the company’s tenured financial and accounting leadership teams to enable a seamless transition. The company plans to launch an executive search to identify a permanent CFO.

Haley, 57, previously served as the VP and controller of the company from 2017 to January 2019. Before joining the company in 2017, Haley served as VP and chief accounting officer of Conn’s, Inc. from 2014 to 2017. Haley also held leadership positions at Coldwater Creek, Supervalu and Deloitte & Touche LLP.

“Mark is a trusted and accomplished leader whose financial expertise and deep understanding of our business position him perfectly to lead during this important transition,” Howe added. “I am confident that his strategic perspective, operational discipline, and commitment to excellence will ensure continuity as we move forward. As an organization, our efforts will remain focused on execution of our strategic initiatives to build a business rooted in the strength of our brand, centered on the customer, and positioned for long-term value creation.”

Last month, the company reported net sales decreased 4.2 percent in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 to $739.8 million, down from $771.9 million the same time last year. Adjusted net income in the period was $16.7 million or adjusted diluted earnings per share of 34 cents.