Canadian fashion house Joseph Ribkoff is expanding its senior leadership team as the company prepares for a new phase of international growth and brand development. The Montreal based womenswear label, founded in 1957 and now distributed in more than sixty five countries, has appointed two experienced industry leaders to guide its commercial and marketing strategy. The announcement signals the continuation of a long term plan aimed at strengthening the company’s global footprint and increasing its visibility across major markets. The moves also reinforce a sustained focus on supporting the broader Joseph Ribkoff global expansion strategy.
The company confirmed the appointment of Stephen Belfer as Vice President of Global Sales and Business Development. Belfer arrives from Marc Cain, where he spent twelve years leading global commercial initiatives across wholesale, retail, and ecommerce channels. In his new role, he will oversee international sales planning, market development, and the ongoing refinement of the brand’s commercial structure.
At the same time, Joseph Ribkoff has appointed Brett Sugarman as Vice President of Global Marketing. Sugarman joins the company after more than fifteen years at Michael Kors, where she worked on a range of global brand communication and consumer engagement programs. She will now lead the company’s worldwide marketing strategy, with a focus on digital growth, storytelling, and initiatives designed to elevate the brand’s presence with consumers around the world.
“These appointments mark an exciting step forward for Joseph Ribkoff,” said Emmanuel Amzallag, Chief Executive Officer. “Stephen and Brett bring outstanding expertise in building international brands and driving growth. Their leadership will help us accelerate momentum, strengthen our customer connections, and reinforce our position as a global leader in premium contemporary womenswear.”
Strengthening Sales and Expanding Global Market Reach
Belfer’s mandate includes the development of global sales strategies that reflect both established and emerging markets. His experience in scaling international business units is expected to support the company’s plans to deepen its retail partnerships and expand market access.
“I am honoured to join Joseph Ribkoff at this pivotal time,” said Belfer. “I look forward to working with the global teams to drive performance and operational excellence. We are not simply growing distribution, we are elevating the way the world experiences Joseph Ribkoff.”
Belfer brings a record of managing growth programs that balance long term vision with operational discipline. His leadership will contribute to the company’s continued efforts to refine its international strategy and strengthen global relationships. With thousands of retail partners and an extensive wholesale network, the brand continues to identify new opportunities for expansion in line with the wider Joseph Ribkoff global expansion plan.
Marketing Strategy to Emphasize Brand Evolution and Digital Channels
Sugarman’s appointment reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening its consumer engagement and digital presence. Her background in global brand management, combined with experience developing integrated marketing programs, positions her to guide the next stage of the company’s brand evolution.
“Joseph Ribkoff has an incredible soul with decades of heritage, craftsmanship and a deeply loyal customer base,” she said. “My goal is to build the next chapter, a modern, relevant, global brand that continues to feel personal and authentic. It is about evolution, not reinvention and we are ready to accelerate digital transformation and meet our customers in the channels she trusts.”
The company plans to increase its digital investments across advertising, ecommerce, and global communication channels. This includes enhanced storytelling and refined marketing initiatives designed to strengthen the brand’s appeal in diverse markets. Sugarman’s role will be central as the company works to modernize its communication approach and increase visibility across international markets.
A Canadian Fashion Brand with a Strong International Presence
Joseph Ribkoff’s legacy has helped guide its continued growth across global markets. Headquartered in Montreal, the brand produces a significant portion of its collections in Canada, with manufacturing concentrated in Quebec and Ontario. The company is known for offering womenswear that focuses on fit, comfort, and contemporary design, supported by quality materials and tailored construction.
Its collections, which include Joseph Ribkoff Collection, Joseph Ribkoff Signature, and Joseph Ribkoff Sport, are distributed through showrooms, independent boutiques, department stores, and select retail partners in major cities around the world. With a presence in more than sixty five countries, the company remains one of Canada’s most recognized global fashion brands.
The brand’s heritage is defined by craftsmanship, bold design, and a long standing commitment to quality. Many of the company’s core garments are designed to meet the needs of women seeking wardrobe versatility, travel ready fabrics, and seasonless pieces that can be worn across a range of occasions. These attributes have contributed to the brand’s loyal customer base and supported its endurance within a competitive retail environment.
