Children’s fitted footwear expert Start‑Rite Shoes has made three strategic appointments across training, sales and product, as it enters the key Back to School trading period.

The brand has appointed Callum Linger (pictured) 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, Linger 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.

“I’m excited to join Start‑Rite Shoes as brand trainer, returning to my passion for education and brand storytelling,” says Linger. “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 joins Start-Rite Shoes as sales manager

Start‑Rite has also expanded its commercial team with the appointment of Simon Baker as sales manager. Baker brings significant experience across national accounts, digital retail and international markets, following 15 years at Skechers and previous roles with Clarks, GAP and Puma. Baker will focus on driving new business in the UK and new international markets.

To support the continued evolution of its product portfolio, Start‑Rite has also hired Hilde Goode as product consultant. Goode brings extensive experience across major UK high street footwear brands and will work with the Start‑Rite team to ensure product development continues to meet the highest standards of fit, quality and innovation.

Strengthening the team for peak season

“These appointments come as we enter our busiest trading period of the year,” says Jennifer Tyley, marketing and ecommerce director at Start-Rite. “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.”

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