Start‑Rite Shoes has made three strategic hires across training, sales and product as the brand enters the key back‑to‑school trading period.
The company has appointed Callum Linger as Brand Trainer, bringing a wealth of experience in retail education, product storytelling and footwear technologies, including 11 years with ASICS EMEA. In his new role, Mr Linger will lead Start‑Rite’s retailer training programme, supporting partners to deliver exceptional fitting experiences – a core pillar of the brand’s double century legacy.
Mr Linger said: “I’m excited to join Start‑Rite Shoes and returning to my passion for education and brand storytelling. My focus is on bringing Start‑Rite’s heritage and product expertise to life in‑store, strengthening brand presence and creating meaningful experiences for retailers and families.”
Elsewhere, the brand has also expanded its commercial team with the appointment of Simon Baker as Sales Manager, who will focus on driving new business in the UK and new international markets. Mr Baker brings significant experience across national accounts, digital retail and international markets, following 15 years at Skechers and previous roles with Clarks, GAP and Puma.
And lastly, Hilde Goode has been appointed as Product Consultant. She will work closely with the Start‑Rite team to ensure product development continues to meet the highest standards of fit, quality and innovation it is known for.
Jennifer Tyley, Marketing and eCommerce Director at Start-Rite, said: “These appointments come as we enter our busiest trading period of the year. By investing in expertise across training, sales and product, we’re strengthening the support we offer our retailer partners and elevating the in‑store experience. Start‑Rite is known for durable fitted school shoes, but our excellence extends across the full children’s footwear journey, from pre‑walkers and first year shoes right through to senior styles for teens – in both school and lifestyle categories.”
