About Me

As an accomplished leader in the apparel industry, I bring over 20 years of experience managing the end-to-end product lifecycle for private label and owned brands. I have consistently driven success by aligning brand strategy with market demands, overseeing all stages of product development—from concept and design through production and go-to-market execution.

My expertise encompasses line planning, sustainable product development, supplier relationship management, and supply chain optimization. Known for my ability to lead diverse, global teams in high-growth environments, I am committed to creating products that uphold the highest standards of quality, performance, and environmental responsibility. I have built and nurtured strategic partnerships with suppliers across key regions, enabling efficient and flexible supply chains that adapt to dynamic industry demands.

Throughout my career, I have prioritized innovation, operational excellence, and team development, empowering my teams to deliver impactful results and foster a culture of continuous improvement. My mission is to leverage my skills and industry insights to elevate brand portfolios, drive growth, and build meaningful connections with consumers.

Career Highlights

  • Led global sourcing & development strategies achieving operational efficiencies & financial growth.
  • Championed sustainability initiatives to align supply chains with environmental & social governance goals. 
    • Specifically around Fair-Trade partnerships and PFAS-compliant product
  • Developed & scaled cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and driving innovation, using the focus of my athletic background to highlight my team’s strengths, managing teams from 2-17 personal.
  • Reduced product development calendar cycles by 50% while improving inventory accuracy & cost efficiency.
  • Known for driving speed-to-market strategies that increase profitability & customer satisfaction by leveraging my relationships in countries known for fast lead-times.
  • Expert in building & managing comprehensive development & Go-to-Market (GTM) calendars, ensuring seamless cross-functional alignment & on-time execution.
  • Long history of working with premier brands across diverse lifestyle categories, delivering innovative & market-leading solutions that resonate with consumers.

Whether optimizing global supply chains, spearheading innovative product strategies, or leading with purpose, I am committed to delivering excellence and shaping the future of consumer goods.

Testimonials

"Ask yourself how many people you’ve ever worked with who you would trust to run your Own business. Surely it’s a short list. Colleen is one of my very few. She is so strategic by nature, super sharp, operationally oriented, and driven. She has a very broad end-to-end vision. She is also approachable, engaged and empathetic- somebody who can really develop people and lead. So yeah, the whole package.
I miss working with her but bank on our paths crossing again. As mentioned above!"


- Stefanie Rotta

"I had the pleasure of working with Colleen for over 7 years at URBN. She was an excellent partner to develop & execute strategies together. Colleen's personality is electric, never to shy away from any challenge - she follows from initiation to execution with enthusiasm. I would highly recommend her to any company who is looking for an employee who is dedicated, a real team player, and creative."



Amy Steinhert

"Colleen is an incredible leader and mentor. When we worked together, she successfully help to build and streamline process for Urban structured and denim product to ensure trend right garments while maintaining speed to market. Colleen proved to be a strong cross functional partner to her team members by providing new ideas and also being able to strategically leverage past/current business. I hope to work with Colleen again in the future!



Chelsea Plesnitzer