James Weinberg Named Chief Executive Officer of Kellwood's Halmode Division

NEW YORK, June 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- James Weinberg has been named chief executive officer of Kellwood's Halmode suit and dress division, effective August 1, 2006, according to Robert C. Skinner, Jr., chairman, president and chief executive officer of Kellwood Company.

With over 20 years of experience in the retail industry, Weinberg spent most of his career with the May Company in merchandising and buying positions in women's apparel. Rising up through the May organization, he has a proven track record of increasing sales and developing cohesive collections for women. He most recently had been a senior vice president and general merchandise manager for Robinsons-May.

"Jim has a keen understanding of the women's apparel business. He is a talented merchant and well-respected team builder. We look forward to his leadership as we build and expand Halmode's brands," stated Skinner.

Halmode markets women's suits and dresses under Kellwood owned brands, Sag Harbor(R), Koret(R), Miss Dorby(TM), Plaza South(TM); and under licensed brands, Emma James(R), Liz Claiborne(R), and J.H. Collectibles(R) from Liz Claiborne, Inc.

In May, Jay Diamond announced he would retire as CEO of the Halmode division at the end of August 2006. Jim will begin his new role at Halmode on August 1, 2006 and will work with Jay to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

Based in the New York, Weinberg will report to Skinner.

Kellwood , a $2 billion marketer of apparel and consumer soft goods, specializes in branded as well as private label products, and markets to all channels of distribution with product specific to a particular channel. For more information, visit http://www.kellwood.com/ .