Ronnie Robinson is a seasoned global executive and board director with over 40 years of leadership experience in sourcing, supply chain management, and manufacturing operations, primarily focused on the specialty apparel, footwear, and accessories industries. Recognized for his ability to transform complex global operations into agile, cost-effective, and sustainable business units, Ronnie has consistently driven operational excellence, strategic growth, and organizational leadership at both public and private companies.

Ronnie is the founder and owner of R Squared Consulting, LLC, where he partners with brands and retailers to deliver high-impact solutions in supply chain strategy, sourcing transformation, and production operations. His consultancy enables him to contribute his deep operational knowledge to companies seeking to optimize performance while aligning with evolving global standards in ESG and compliance.

Throughout his career, Ronnie has held prominent executive roles at several of the most respected names in retail. Most recently, he served as chief supply chain officer at Designer Brands, Inc. (DSW), overseeing a $3.5 billion retail and wholesale business. He led end-to-end sourcing for all private label and owned/licensed brands, managing a global team of 200+ with operational hubs in China, Brazil, and Vietnam. Under his leadership, the company significantly reduced logistics costs while enhancing delivery performance, improving customer satisfaction, and expanding sustainability initiatives.

Prior to DSW, Ronnie was chief sourcing officer at J.Crew Group, where he shifted the company from a predominantly agent-based sourcing model to a direct-to-factory approach. This transformation resulted in a $200 million annual cost reduction and a more resilient and responsive supply chain. He also championed a forward-thinking corporate social responsibility program that positioned J.Crew as a sustainability leader.

Ronnie’s extensive executive background includes key leadership roles at Ascena Retail Group, where he ultimately served as president of Ascena Global Sourcing, leading a $2 billion cost-of-goods operation. Earlier in his career, he held various leadership positions at Mast Industries, including international assignments that laid the foundation for his global perspective and deep technical knowledge of textile and apparel manufacturing.

In addition to his operational roles, Ronnie brings robust governance and boardroom experience. He is a board member and compensation committee member for Duluth Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: DLTH), contributing to strategic oversight, executive compensation, and company performance. He also serves as a board member of Handshake America, a nonprofit organization focused on coaching and developing high school student-athletes for lifelong success.

Ronnie earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry (Color Science and Technology) from Heriot Watt University in Scotland and later completed his MBA as a Sloan Fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Sloan School of Management.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ronnie is a former college soccer player and a global citizen who has lived and worked in six different countries, including the UK, Hong Kong, and the U.S. He and his wife, Val, reside in New Albany, Ohio, and are proud parents of two grown daughters.

Ronnie Robinson’s career is defined by a commitment to operational excellence, sustainable business practices, and leadership development, making him a sought-after advisor, board member, and executive mentor. His personal mission is clear: to offer support and inspiration to others through leadership and subject-matter expertise.

Character: Ronnie Robinson is a principled and mission-driven leader known for his integrity, global perspective, and commitment to supporting others through mentorship and service.

Knowledge: With over 40 years of executive experience, Ronnie brings deep subject-matter expertise in sourcing, supply chain, manufacturing, and ESG across the global apparel and footwear industries.

Strategic: He has successfully transformed sourcing models, streamlined global operations, and delivered multi-million-dollar efficiencies while aligning companies with long-term sustainability goals.

Communication: Ronnie is an effective communicator who builds strong cross-functional and cross-cultural relationships, engaging teams and stakeholders at every level—from factory floor to boardroom.