PICKERINGTON, Ohio , Oct. 21, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Accessories marketer RG Barry Brands has announced plans for a leadership change in its baggallini handbag business.

Alan M. Krantzler , Chief Merchandising Officer at Tumi Inc. will assume the presidency of baggallini July 1, 2015 upon the retirement of long-time president Dennis Eckols .  Krantzler will join baggallini Nov. 3 as Head of Creative/General Manager, reporting to Eckols.

As Tumi's CMO, Krantzler grew the business to a more than $500 million global lifestyle and accessories brand in 10 years. He was responsible for their product management, creative services, visual and retail store merchandising, marketing, new business development and market research.  He also previously held similar positions at Coach and Perry Ellis . He began his career as a buyer with Saks Fifth Avenue.

"Alan is the next generation of leader; the person who is going to take baggallini to the next level," said Greg Tunney , President and Chief Executive Officer. "He is a true blended merchant and marketer who has spent his career developing and driving product strategies that focus on the consumer.

"When we bought the bag business nearly four years ago, Dennis and I developed a transition strategy for his anticipated retirement that allowed us to identify, hire and integrate an appropriate successor. This ordered transition allows Alan to spend his first months with the Company focusing on the heart of his business -- branding, merchandising, marketing and product development," Tunney said.

Krantzler holds a master's degree in marketing and organizational management from Columbia University and is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania . He will be based out of RG Barry Brands New York City offices.

Krantzler was placed by the executive search firm Berglass+Associates. Chairman Les Berglass said:  "As a marketing and product executive with great respect for his consumer, Alan's talent for blending innovative design with real-world practicality will be key in driving baggallini's next phase of growth."

About RG Barry
RG Barry Brands is a privately-owned creator and marketer of great accessories brands and fashionable, solution-oriented products that make life better. Our primary brands include: Dearfoams slippers dearfoams.com; baggallini handbags, totes and travel accessories baggallini.com; and Foot Petals premium insoles and comfort products footpetals.com. 

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SOURCE RG Barry Brands

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