Fifth & Pacific Companies, Inc. (NYSE: FNP) today announced the appointment of Paul Blum as Chief Executive Officer, Juicy Couture, effective immediately. Mr. Blum is an experienced leader and respected brand builder who will be responsible for driving growth at Juicy Couture. Mr. Blum will report directly to William L. McComb, Chief Executive Officer, Fifth & Pacific Companies, Inc.

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. McComb said: “I am very pleased with today’s announcement.  Paul’s experience running and building lifestyle brands is a perfect match for the CEO role at Juicy Couture.  His multi-channel background, his passion for digital marketing and sales, and his experience in leading a creatively driven business are just what we were looking for.  He is an outstanding leader and collaborator.”

“The Juicy Couture brand has such a promising future,” said Mr. Blum. “I’ve watched the brand change in recent seasons, and I believe it has the ability to scale globally, and through multiple channels, to meaningful heights. I am passionate about its digital presence, its capability to expand in accessories, and the relatively unharnessed global equity.  I am very excited to join this team.”

Mr. Blum spent 15 years at Kenneth Cole Productions where he held positions of increasing responsibility, holding the position of President and COO when he left in 2005 to become the Chief Executive Officer of David Yurman, the fine designer jewelry business.  Mr. Blum rejoined Kenneth Cole Productions as Chief Executive Officer in 2011 and joins Juicy Couture from there.

“We’ve come a long way in the past two years in reinvigorating Juicy, but we have more to accomplish,” said LeAnn Nealz, President and Chief Creative Officer of Juicy Couture.  “We look forward to welcoming Paul and moving forward with our turnaround of the business.”  Ms. Nealz will report directly to Mr. Blum.