Sheboygan-based Wigwam Mills Inc. announced that Thomas Wheeler had been named the company’s president and chief executive officer.
Robert Chesebro, Wigwam chairman, described Wheeler as “a talented, visionary business leader with a complete set of creative, strategic and analytical skills to grow a leading apparel brand in a highly competitive and evolving global landscape.”
“He also fully embraces the principles of integrity, quality, value and service upon which Wigwam was founded in 1905. We are confident he will build upon the company’s legacy as an iconic American brand with a focus toward our future as a global lifestyle brand,” Chesebro said.
Wheeler replaces Chesebro as president and CEO. He is just the second person to lead the company who is not a member of the Chesebro family.
Wheeler has more than 25 years of executive level experience, including 20 years at Hartmarx Corp. and as president adn CEO of Wormser apparel.
He said he has long admired the Wigwam brand and was looking forward to helping it expand into new markets.
“I proudly join the Wigwam family with the clear goal of moving the company forward by working with the board to identify and pursue growth in key areas, collaborating with and inspiring our people to find new ways to drive enhanced customer satisfaction while delivering increased value to our shareholders,” Wheeler said.
Wigwam manufactures socks for a variety of uses including sports, outdoor activities and work environments.
