Buxbaum Steps Down as Haggar CEO

Two new executives have been named to take over the top positions at Haggar Clothing Co., a menswear maker since 1926.

Michael Stitt is the new chief executive and has joined the board of directors. Previously, Stitt was president since 2006 of Haggar’s Canadian business.

He replaces Paul Buxbaum, head of The Buxbaum Group in Agoura Hills, Calif., who was brought on board in 2009 to help turn Haggar around.

Tim Lyons, who has been with the company for 32 years and was formerly president of Haggar’s U.S. wholesale-sales operations, was named Haggar’s new president.

Buxbaum will remain a strategic adviser to the Dallas-based menswear company, founded by Lebanese immigrant Joe Haggar to manufacture well-made dress slacks and pants for the discerning customer.

“Under Paul’s capable leadership, Haggar has gained substantial share and continued its long record of innovation in the marketplace, most recently with the successful launch of a new brand, Life Khaki. Haggar now moves enthusiastically into the next phase of our long-term plan for domestic and international growth under the very talented direction of Michael Stitt and Tim Lyons,” said Brian Leitch, co-chairman of Haggar’s board of directors. “It is especially gratifying to be able to promote into these positions two executives with such long and successful track records at Haggar as Michael and Tim. Along with the rest of the senior executive team, their deep relationships with our customers and vendors, and their detailed knowledge of where we have been and where we want to go, will ensure a seamless transition and leave Haggar well-positioned for the future.”
Haggar pants always had a reputation of being well-made and sold at a reasonable price.

In 1964, President Lyndon Johnson personally called Joseph Haggar from the Oval Office and placed an order for six pairs of pants.—Deborah Belgum