The Jones Group Appoints Kathy Nedorostek Group President, Global Footwear And Accessories

NEW YORK, Sept. 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Jones Group Inc. ("Jones," the "Company") (NYSE: JNY) today announced that it has appointed Kathy Nedorostek to the newly created position of Group President, Global Footwear and Accessories, effective mid-October.  This addition furthers the Company's commitment to retain and recruit top talent to establish the leading portfolio of fashion brands in the industry. Nedorostek will oversee the continued growth and expansion of footwear, handbags and jewelry for The Jones Group. 

"Footwear and accessories are core strategic pillars and growing segments of The Jones Group business, and we are thrilled to add Kathy's premier brand leadership to support and direct our development in these categories," said Richard Dickson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Branded Businesses at The Jones Group. "Her unparalleled experience in the industry makes her an ideal addition to our executive team as we continue to establish The Jones Group as the leading global fashion company defined by premier brands and led by exceptional talent."  

In her role as Group President, Global Footwear and Accessories, Nedorostek will report into Richard Dickson and will oversee the operations, sales, production and overall category development for the Company's venerable brands, such as Nine West, Anne Klein, Easy Spirit, and many more.

"This position presents the rare opportunity to join a talented leadership team and work across a group of well- recognized footwear and accessories brands, all of which have significant growth and expansion potential," said Ms. Nedorostek. "I look forward to extending the ongoing transformation in the Company's core brands, continuing the development of designer brands and identifying new avenues to extend The Jones Group's footwear and accessories portfolio."

Nedorostek joins The Jones Group from Coach, Inc. where she served as President of North America Wholesale and Global Licensing since 2003.  Nedorostek played an integral role in the brand's development, driving significant market share gains in North American department and specialty stores for handbags and accessories.  Additionally, under her leadership, Coach realized substantial growth in all licensed categories.

Previously, Nedorostek was President and Chief Operating Officer for the Natori Company, where she oversaw the repositioning of the brand in the market and supported development of a strong management team. Before joining Natori, she was President of the cK Calvin Klein Shoes & Bags division of Nine West Group Inc., where she launched the division in both retail and wholesale channels globally. Prior to launching the cK division, Nedorostek was Chief Operating Officer for Judith Leiber. She also held senior management positions at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Ms. Nedorostek currently serves on the Board of Directors of Select Comfort Corporation and Volunteers of America of Greater New York.

About The Jones Group Inc.

The Jones Group Inc. (www.jonesgroupinc.com) is a leading global designer, marketer and wholesaler of over 35 brands with product expertise in apparel, footwear, jeanswear, jewelry and handbags.  The Jones Group has a reputation for innovation, excellence in product quality and value, operational execution and talent.  The Company also markets directly to consumers through branded specialty retail and outlet stores and through its e-commerce sites.

The Company's internationally recognized brands and licensing agreements (L) include: Nine West, Jones New York, Anne Klein, Kurt Geiger, Rachel Roy (L), Robert Rodriguez, Robbi& Nikki, Stuart Weitzman, Brian Atwood (L), Boutique 9, Easy Spirit, Carvela, Gloria Vanderbilt, l.e.i., Bandolino, Enzo Angiolini, Nine & Co., GLO, Joan & David, Miss KG, Jones Wear, Kasper, Energie, Evan-Picone, Le Suit, Mootsies Tootsies, Grane, Erika, Napier, Jessica Simpson (L), Givenchy (L), Judith Jack, Albert Nipon, Pappagallo, Rafe (L) and C&T Costello Tagliapietra (L). 

Investor Contact:
John T. McClain, Chief Financial Officer
The Jones Group
(212) 703-9189

Media Contacts:                   
Joele Frank and Sharon Stern
Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
(212) 355-4449

SOURCE The Jones Group Inc.