Perry Ellis International Inc. has named Mary Gleason as president of licensing. She will report directly to George Feldenkreis, chairman and chief executive officer.

In her new role Ms Gleason will be responsible for growing the company's $23 million licensing business through expansion into new product categories and new markets. The company currently has licence agreements with over 150 licensees, who generate approximately $500 million annually in wholesale sales. Perry Ellis International licenses 20 brands through all distribution channels domestically and overseas including Perry Ellis, Jantzen, Original Penguin and Gotcha.

Ms Gleason's career spans 25 years in fashion apparel, brand management and brand development. Prior to joining Perry Ellis, she served as president of the Exeter Brands Group, a Nike subsidiary dedicated to building brands in the value retail channel.