As part of its strategic review,
Liz Claiborne said Tuesday that it had engaged with
Perry Ellis International to sell two of its brands. The company is also considering the fate of a number of its other brands during the first quarter, in an effort to maintain operations despite posting losses in the last few years (see article from
CNNMoney).
An IntellectSpace Knowledge Map of the common connections shared between Liz Claiborne and Perry Ellis through senior leadership could point to key ties that may have been advantageous in facilitating the deal.
This Knowledge Map clearly illustrates how Paul R Charron, who was the Chairman/CEO of Liz Claiborne until late 2006 and has been Chairman Emeritus and a Consultant for the company for the past year, likely knows Perry Ellis Founder/Chairman/CEO George Feldenkreis. The two served together, until Charron’s retirement from Liz Claiborne, as Directors of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. Feldenkreis continues to be a Director of the Association, making him well acquainted with the Association’s Vice Chairperson, Carol Hochman. Last serving as a division President, Hochman was with Liz Claiborne for twenty years until 1999, and it’s possible that she may still be in contact with the company’s current leadership team.
Relationships through Nike and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia may also have factored into the deal. Liz Claiborne Executive Vice President Dave McTague and Perry Ellis division President Mary Gleason may have crossed paths in recent years as each simultaneously served as Presidents of separate subsidiaries of Nike. Also, Liz Claiborne Director Arthur C Martinez and former Perry Ellis CFO Neal Hackman were members of the Leadership Team at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. Beginning from 2001, Martinez was a Director and Hackman was the Senior Vice President/Controller of the company.
The multiple sets of connections shared by Liz Claiborne and Perry Ellis may have proven valuable in motivating and easing the sale. As Liz Claiborne contemplates shedding some of its additional brands, it is likely the company will evaluate its corporate connections in order to secure additional buyers.
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