Chris McGrath joined Timberland in 2019 as Vice President of Global Footwear Design and in 2021 took on responsibility for Development.

In this hybrid role, Mr. McGrath leads a team of designers and developers to bring the brand’s best expression of crafted innovation to market: footwear that is progressively styled, authentic to the brand’s work and outdoor heritage, and designed with the environment in mind. He collaborates with Timberland’s global apparel and accessories teams to ensure a holistic design approach and deliver products that are innovative and aspirational, creating an emotional connection with consumers while achieving sustainable business results. He also oversees the brand’s Advanced Concepts and Energy (ACE) and Digital Product Creation (DPC) teams, focused on simplifying and accelerating the design and development process. Under his leadership, these teams tap into Timberland’s new in-house maker space (The Shed) to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation and bring new concepts to life in a matter of days.

Prior to joining Timberland, Mr. McGrath garnered a wealth of design experience with diverse brands including Musto, Puma, Clarks, Nike, Speedo, and McLaren Formula 1. He also was Head of Design for Pentland Brands based in the United Kingdom.

He holds a bachelor of technology degree in product design from Pontypridd Art College and a master of design degree in consumer product design from Coventry University.