Steve Madden Appoints Arian Simone to His Board of Directors
HBCU graduate Arian Simone has just been appointed to Steve Madden’s board of directors. Sitting as the Fearless Fund president and chief executive officer, the board is excited for what the future holds for her new position.
Steve Madden is a shoe and accessories brand based in New York City. The CEO, Steve Madden, produces shoes in over 80 countries. The head of the board, Edward Rosenfeld, stated his gratitude about Steve’s decision.
“We are pleased to welcome Arian to our board of directors. She complements our board’s skills and experiences. With her marketing expertise, we are confident she will provide valuable perspectives,” said Edward Rosenfeld, chairman and chief executive officer of Steven Madden, LTD.
She graduated from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University with her MBA then co-founded the Fearless Fund, the first VC fund by women of color for women of color. Earlier this year, she partnered with the Tory Burch Foundation to create a grant to help Black female business owners.
By experiencing being laid off from her job, applying for over one hundred companies, and not getting hired by one. She then created her PR and Marketing firm from the ground up. In an interview with Marie Forleo, she stated that she told herself the following:
“One day, you’ll be the business investor you’re looking for.”
In a recent Instagram post, Arian stated how she felt about joining the board of directors. She wanted to let the company know she meant business in the board room. By spending time with the companies staff and Steve’s family, she believed this was the perfect fit.
“Upon being approached, I let Gregg know I’m not into being a token face in the room, I need to be sure what I consider 360 diversity, equity, and inclusion will be taken seriously.”
This boss woman had inspired so many people when she faced her situation firsthand and created her business. This new adventure is not her final experience, and we are excited to see what she does next.
