Gretchen is a performance-driven product executive with a passion for building iconic brands, driving innovation, and leading high-performing teams. As chief product officer at Kizik, she brings her extensive experience in footwear and apparel to help build the next great global footwear brand. Her expertise lies in end-to-end product creation, development, and marketing, turning insights into award-winning products that resonate with consumers and drive business growth.

Gretchen has successfully launched, grown, and transformed brands across sports, fitness, and lifestyle categories, including HOKA, Nike, Fila, New Balance, and Kizik. Most notably, she led HOKA Global Product to deliver approximately $1.2B in global sales over seven years, demonstrating her ability to scale brands and position major products across diverse categories while implementing cost-effective strategies that maximize profitability.

Gretchen believes in innovation with purpose—creating products that not only perform but also inspire. She thrives at fostering collaboration and building strong teams, bringing both a strategic mindset and hands-on approach to leadership. 

Tell us a bit about why you chose to work with Newcastle and what excites you most about your partnership?

We're proud to partner with The Newcastle Network because of their deep expertise, genuine passion, and an unwavering belief in our brand. As thought leaders and collaborative partners, they bring more than capital; they bring conviction. Their passion is palpable, and their trust in our hands-free footwear vision inspires us to push further, innovate more boldly, and grow with purpose.

If you could instantly become an expert in anything, which would you choose and why?

Footwear design. I have great admiration for the people who bring our product to life.

What's your most specific pet peeve that no one else seems to understand?

Being on time for meetings.