US footwear retailer Shoe Carnival has announced a leadership transition, alongside preliminary full-year fiscal 2025 results that point to stable trading in a competitive market.

The Fort Mill, South Carolina-based retailer confirmed that vice chairman Cliff Sifford has been appointed interim president and CEO, effective February 24, following the departure of Mark J Worden from both the CEO role and the company’s board.

The board has initiated a search process for a permanent successor.

Sifford is a seasoned leader within the business, having first joined Shoe Carnival in 1997 and previously served multiple terms as CEO. His return to the top role is positioned as a stabilising move as the retailer continues to execute its long-term growth strategy.

“We’re grateful for Mark’s many contributions throughout his career at Shoe Carnival and wish him all the best,” said Charlie Tomm, lead independent director on the company’s board. 

“The board believes that Cliff’s proven leadership, coupled with his years of experience with Shoe Carnival and his vast knowledge of the business, make him the right person to lead Shoe Carnival as we execute our strategic plan.”

Full-year snapshot

Alongside the leadership news, Shoe Carnival released preliminary results for the fiscal year ended January 31. 

The company expects net sales of approximately $1.135 billion. The retailer ended the year with more than $130 million in cash. 

Shoe Carnival operates more than 400 stores across the US and Puerto Rico under its Shoe Carnival and Shoe Station banners.

Last year, Shoe Carnival officially changed its corporate name to Shoe Station Group following a unanimous vote by its board of directors. 

The company expects that more than 90 per cent of its stores will operate under the Shoe Station banner by the end of fiscal 2028, while the remaining locations will be evaluated for rebranding, repositioning, or potential closure.