Florence Kelly, Hush Puppies Brand Manager at Gloucester-based distributor, Gardiners, has been awarded the prestigious Pattenmakers’ Footwear Future Leader’s Award 2025, recognising her outstanding achievements and potential to shape the future of the footwear industry.
The Pattenmakers’ Footwear Future Leader’s Award 2025 is presented annually to an exceptional individual in the footwear industry who demonstrates remarkable leadership, creativity, and a commitment to drive positive change.
The scheme is open to young managers in both footwear and facilities management with the winner receiving bespoke training, networking and a unique development programme opportunity co-funded by the livery, as well as membership to the Company of Pattenmakers. Florene Kelly will also receive the Paice Memorial Bursary.
Ms Kelly was described as a rising star in footwear brand and product innovation. She was selected from a competitive pool of nominees and was presented the award last month at the annual banquet held at the Mansion House by Alderman, Sir Andrew Parmley, who is the representative of the Lord Mayor of London. The award was presented in the company of Lord Timpson.
“I am incredibly honoured to receive The Pattenmakers’ Footwear Future Leader’s Award,” said Ms Kelly. “This recognition motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in the footwear industry and in my career, providing enhanced training and networking opportunities and allowing me to connect with and learn from other industry leaders and inspiring businesses.”
Ms Kelly has worked at Gardiners for five years, predominantly managing the iconic global footwear brand Hush Puppies. Since graduating with a first class degree in retail she has worked with a number of fashion brands and designers gaining experience and a wealth of knowledge in brand strategy and product design. With Ms Kelly driving the brand forward, Hush Puppies has seen a significant surge in popularity in the UK, successfully capturing the attention of fashion-forward individuals looking for an optimistic comfort brand.
Jane Wilson, of The Worshipful Company of Pattenmakers, said: “We were delighted to make this award to Florence who impressed the panel with her dedication and commitment to self-improvement and excellence. She has a clear vision of her business priorities, where she is going in her career and what she needs.”
