Steve Madden’s chief merchandising officer Karla Frieders has resigned after holding the position for nearly 10 years.

Frieders’ voluntary resignation was effective on June 30. The footwear brand noted that her decision was due to personal reasons and was not the result of any disagreement with the company on any matter relating to the company’s operations, policies or practices. 

Frieders joined Steve Madden in 1999 and has been chief merchandising officer since September 2015. She previously held various positions, including president of retail.

The company said it does not intend to appoint a new chief merchandising officer at this time. 

Certain of Frieders’ responsibilities are being assumed by other members of the company’s management, it added.

Robert Smith, a member of the board of directors, has also submitted his resignation to pursue another opportunity, effective July 14. He has been a director of the company since April 2014.

The board will reduce its size from 11 members to 10 members following Smith’s departure.

Steve Madden reported a 0.2 per cent increase in sales for the first quarter ended March 31, but its net income fell 7.9 per cent.