Although the actual bird, genus Dromaius, has always been flightless, EMU Australia Lifestyle Footwear is getting ready to soar under the direction of new CEO, Edward C. Houston Jr. (Ted).
Houston's first flight command is to lead EMU's growth in Canada, USA and Central and South America.
Houston comes to EMU from People's Liberation and William Rast, where as President of People's Liberation Inc, he ran the companies and was responsible for strategic direction. Earlier, with premium denim and lifestyle brand Rock and Republic, Houston as COO oversaw sales increase of 400%.
Some of Houston's other high-flying achievements include growing C & C California knitwear from a $4 million company to a $24 million company, while also being instrumental in its 2005 sale to Liz Claiborne.
At Dickies Girl, Houston increased specialty store business by 75% in one year, and was responsible for success at the national women's retail brand BEBE, from the grassroots level by overseeing supply chain initiatives focused on merchandising, product development, production and distribution.
The union of Houston and EMU Australia commences October 2007 with Houston landing at the brand's San Clemente, CA office.
EMU Australia is the authentic Australian lifestyle footwear brand. Dubbed "the most comfortable shoes in the world," the company's product line ranges from traditional sheepskin boots and slippers to fashion forward footwear and stylishly comfortable leisure footwear.
Distributed worldwide, EMU is headquartered in Geelong, Australia with North American Corporate offices in San Clemente, CA.
EMU Ridge Australia |