True Religion names new EVP, North America wholesale sales

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
May 26, 2023

Iconic American denim and sportswear brand True Religion announced this week the appointment of Jim Kushner as executive vice president, North America wholesale sales. 

The move comes, as True Religion expects to double its North American wholesale business over the next three years. 

“Jim’s impressive depth of experience with some of the biggest names in our industry made him the perfect executive to lead True Religion’s North America Wholesale,” said chief executive officer Michael Buckley, who Kushner will report to.  

“He brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in the denim and sportswear market where he has driven growth, increased profitability and market share, and worked across all channels of business.”

Kushner's most recent position was executive vice president of sales for the Perry Ellis and Original Penguin brands. In this role, he was responsible for managing sales of men's sportswear across various lifestyle brands and distribution channels. 

During his tenure, he successfully generated $200 million in revenue in 2022. He also collaborated closely with the team to develop product strategies and expanded the Perry Ellis business by partnering with retailers such as Dillard’s, Hudson’s Bay, Marmaxx, and Nordstrom Rack.

Before joining Perry Ellis International, Kushner served as president at Zee Co. Apparel Corp's Hawke & Co., an outdoor and active lifestyle brand. Prior to that, he spent 11 years at PVH's Calvin Klein, where he held positions of increasing responsibility. His final role at Calvin Klein was senior vice president of sales for Calvin Klein's Sportswear and Jeans divisions. Kushner began his career in 2000, at Guess Jeans, where he worked as a senior account executive for Men’s.

“True Religion is one of the most exciting brands in the industry today and I’m thrilled to become a part of its future growth and transformation,” said Kushner. “I look forward to working with Michael and the rest of the team to help continue True Religion incredible growth across its men’s, women’s and kids’ businesses.”