What: Will Cooper, a longtime Saks executive known for his influence in shoes and accessories, is leaving the company after two decades.

Why it is important: This leadership transition reflects Saks Global’s ongoing restructuring and the critical role of executives in shaping luxury retail strategy.

Will Cooper’s departure from Saks after twenty years signals a significant shift for the retailer during a period of intense transformation. Rising from assistant buyer to senior vice president overseeing brand partnerships and buying for women’s handbags, shoes, and accessories, Cooper played a pivotal role in shaping Saks’ luxury assortment and nurturing relationships with both established and emerging brands. His leadership was instrumental in the recent renovation of the flagship 10022-Shoe floor and in supporting young designers, reflecting Saks’ commitment to innovation and talent development. Cooper’s exit comes as Saks Global continues to integrate Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, streamline its buying teams, and adapt to a new commercial structure. The company faces ongoing financial restructuring, vendor relationship challenges, and a renewed focus on operational efficiency and curated assortments. As Saks navigates executive turnover and evolving market demands, the loss of a key leader like Cooper underscores the importance of strong, visionary leadership in maintaining brand relevance and driving future growth.

IADS Notes: Will Cooper’s exit is emblematic of the leadership changes that have accompanied Saks Global’s post-merger transformation, as detailed in April and June 2025. The company’s unified commercial structure and focus on operational efficiency, data-driven personalization, and curated vendor partnerships have resulted in significant executive turnover and the elevation of new talent. These shifts, alongside marketing strategies that spotlight internal leaders and emerging designers, highlight the evolving priorities in luxury retail and the ongoing impact of executive leadership on Saks’ direction.

Longtime Saks shoe force Will Cooper is exiting the company