Start‑Rite Shoes, the UK’s leading experts in children’s fitted footwear, has made three strategic hires across training, sales and product as the brand enters the key Back‑to‑School trading period.
Callum Linger joins as Brand Trainer:
Start‑Rite has appointed Callum Linger as Brand Trainer, bringing a wealth of experience in retail education, product storytelling and footwear technologies, including 11 years with ASICS EMEA.
In his new role, Callum will lead Start‑Rite’s retailer training programme, supporting partners to deliver exceptional fitting experiences – a core pillar of the brand’s double century legacy.
Callum Linger said: “I’m excited to join Start‑Rite Shoes as Brand Trainer, returning to my passion for education and brand storytelling. My focus is on bringing Start‑Rite’s heritage and product expertise to life in‑store, strengthening brand presence and creating meaningful experiences for retailers and families.”
Simon Baker appointed Sales Manager:
Start‑Rite has expanded its commercial team with the appointment of Simon Baker as Sales Manager. Simon brings significant experience across national accounts, digital retail and international markets, following 15 years at Skechers and previous roles with Clarks, GAP and Puma.
Simon will focus on driving new business in the UK and new international markets.
Hilde Goode joins as Product Consultant:
To support the continued evolution of its product portfolio, Start‑Rite has appointed Hilde Goode as Product Consultant. Hilde brings extensive experience across major UK high‑street footwear brands and will work closely with the Start‑Rite team to ensure product development continues to meet the highest standards of fit, quality and innovation it is known for.
Strengthening the team for peak season
Jennifer Tyley, Marketing and eCommerce Director at Start-Rite adds: “These appointments come as we enter our busiest trading period of the year. By investing in expertise across training, sales and product, we’re strengthening the support we offer our retailer partners and elevating the in‑store experience. Start‑Rite is known for durable fitted school shoes, but our excellence extends across the full children’s footwear journey, from pre‑walkers and first year shoes right through to senior styles for teens – in both school and lifestyle categories.”
For more information about Start-Rite visit www.startrteshoes.com.
