Manolo Blahnik has named Kimberly Mimnaugh as managing director of the Americas, effective immediately.
She will direct commercial strategy for the brand’s New York-based subsidiary, overseeing retail, wholesale, and e-commerce operations across the region. Mimnaugh will also serve as a brand ambassador in the U.S., managing the senior leadership team and reinforcing the company’s family culture and values. She reports to Elodie Bougenault, the brand’s chief commercial officer.
A career built on luxury retail expansion
Before joining Manolo Blahnik, Mimnaugh spent four years as vice president of North America retail at Chloé. There, she led the label’s transition from wholesale to retail, launched its handbag concession model in a major U.S. department store, and developed a sales-recognition program later adopted globally.
Earlier, she served as senior vice president of North America retail at Theory/Helmut Lang, where she managed store operations and financial planning. At Brunello Cucinelli, she focused on controlled brand distribution and retail growth as managing director of North America.
Kristina Blahnik, the brand’s CEO, praised Mimnaugh’s luxury retail expertise and commercial leadership. The CEO noted that Mimnaugh’s experience in accelerating direct-to-consumer growth while maintaining wholesale partnerships made her ideal for the role.
Mimnaugh said she was joining at an important time for the brand in the Americas, citing its reputation for craftsmanship and luxury. “Having spent my career working with luxury brands to build controlled, sustainable market positions, I understand the opportunity and discipline required to grow direct-to-consumer channels while strengthening wholesale and retail balance,” she stated.
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North America as a key growth market
Manolo Blahnik operates four stores in the Americas, including a recent opening at South Coast Plaza in California. Globally, the company has over 23 standalone locations and is sold in more than 200 retail outlets. It also runs its own e-commerce sites, with plans to launch in China next year.
The appointment arrives as luxury brands focus more on direct-to-consumer sales. Mimnaugh has handled this change before, suggesting a strategy that balances expansion with brand control—an approach the company has emphasized in its global plans.
The Americas have long been vital for luxury footwear. Mimnaugh’s hiring reflects confidence in the region’s potential, though results will determine how well the strategy works.
The decision mirrors a broader trend in luxury retail. Brands now seek leaders who can connect traditional wholesale relationships with digital and direct sales demands. Mimnaugh’s career aligns with that shift, making her a natural choice for a brand refining its presence in a crowded market.
Her background in handmade craftsmanship also resonates with the brand’s heritage.
