Conversation with Luisa Herrera-Garcia, SVP of Production, John Varvatos

Luisa Herrera-Garcia shares the importance of developing fashion collections that are creative, “on brand” and commercially viable and profitable. She discusses the need for a more transparent and ethical supply chain, especially with women’s rights in mind. Luisa Herrera-Garcia has over 25 years of experience working with many of the most important American brands in the menswear industry. Presently, Luisa oversees a staff of twenty in the production and design departments for John Varvatos Enterprise. Luisa is responsible for setting the global strategy for planning, production and operation processes while securing profitability requirements for the Varvatos wholesale and retail operations. Her professional expertise includes creating the framework for sustained growth and expansion into new markets and developing strong leaders who possess passion and creativity as well as initiating and negotiating new agent and buying office requirements globally . Known as a fair, open minded and determined leader, Luisa sets high standards for herself and for her team. She is driven by the challenge of mentoring and developing talent to achieve personal and professional success, and recognizes this as one of her highest achievement. Prior to her affiliation with John Varvatos Enterprise, Luisa spent six years with Calvin Klein, rising to the role of Vice President of Production, where she facilitated the global production and merchandising directives for the Tailored, Sportswear and Furnishings lines. She has held similar roles with Perry Ellis, PVH and Cutlass & Moore earlier in her career. As an active participant in philanthropic and civic organizations, Luisa spearheaded the “Mini Olympics,” a celebrity/tastemakers day of competition in Central Park to raise money for various community organizations to benefit children. She has also served on the Host Committee for Jazz at Lincoln Center as well as the Alvin Ailey II Gala from 1996 to 1998. Learn more: LinkedIn | John Varvatos Hosted by: Christopher Lacy, Assistant Professor, Parsons School of Design Produced by: Joshua Williams, Assistant Professor, Parsons School of Design Executive Producer: Fashion Consort Follow the podcast on Instagram: @RetailRevolutionPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices