New Warnaco Swim Chief

New York–based Warnaco Group has named James Gerson as the new president of its swimwear division, which is based in Los Angeles. Gerson, who most recently held the post of president of the V.F. Corp.’s Reef brand, will oversee Warnaco’s Speedo and Calvin Klein Swimwear business, reporting directly to Helen McCluskey, group president of intimate apparel and swimwear. A veteran of brands such as North Face and Jantzen, Gerson replaces Paula Schneider, who left as president of Warnaco’s swim division in February.

“We are delighted to welcome Jim to the Warnaco Swimwear Group,” McCluskey said in a statement. “His rich background in swimwear and experience in product design, merchandising and general brand management complement our existing team and will serve us well as we aim to extend our leadership position in Speedo and maximize the global growth opportunities for our Calvin Klein Swim business.”—Erin Barajas