Caleres appoints Dan Karpel as interim chief financial officer

Caleres, the global footwear portfolio behind brands such as Famous Footwear and Sam Edelman, announced a strategic leadership transition within its executive team. Dan Karpel, the company’s senior vice president and chief accounting officer, has been appointed to the additional role of interim chief financial officer, effective immediately.

Karpel succeeds Jack Calandra, who is departing the company at the end of the month to pursue other opportunities. The company confirmed that Calandra’s exit is not the result of any disagreements regarding financial or operational matters. While a formal search for a permanent successor is underway, Caleres leadership expressed high confidence in Karpel’s ability to manage the transition. A seasoned veteran with over 30 years of experience, Karpel recently rejoined Caleres following CFO roles at Club Car Wash Operating, LLC and CW Holdings, LLC.

“Dan recently returned to Caleres, and he knows our company well,” said Jay Schmidt, president and CEO of Caleres. “We are confident that his deep familiarity with our company coupled with his financial expertise will ensure a smooth transition.” Schmidt also extended the board's gratitude to Calandra for his three years of service.

Alongside the leadership update, Caleres provided a performance outlook for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025. The company noted it is currently monitoring the ongoing Saks Global bankruptcy, which may introduce sales volatility and a potential risk of up to 6 cents to earnings per diluted share. Additionally, the company may incur previously unanticipated restructuring charges. However, barring these specific variables, Caleres remains on track to meet the sales and earnings guidance previously issued in December 2025.