New Chief Named For Lids

Nashville-based Genesco Inc. (NYSE: GCO) has named David Baxter president and chief executive officer of Lids Sports Group in Zionsville. Baxter, who previously served as president of the sports licensed division for adidas and Reebok, will begin in his new role June 1.

Baxter will also serve as a senior vice president of Genesco, the parent company of Lids Sports Group. Robert Dennis, CEO of Genesco, said he is delighted to bring Baxter on board. 

"We believe that he is uniquely qualified to lead the company through the next phase of its growth as an omnichannel retailer," said Dennis. "David’s deep knowledge of the licensed sports industry, his experience across both retail and wholesale, and his record of success in leading businesses and people, make him an ideal choice to lead the Lids Sports Group at this time. We view his industry experience as a valuable addition to the deep retail and merchandising experience that is the core of today’s Lids leadership team."

In his previous role, Baxter was responsible for all of adidas’ and Reebok’s sports licensed business with the NBA, MLS, NHL, WNBA and NCAA.