Florence wins Pattenmakers' Footwear Future Leader's Award 2025
She's a rising star in footwear brand and product innovation and now Florence Kelly, Hush Puppies Brand Manager at Gloucester-based footwear and clothing wholesaler, Gardiners, has won a future leaders award, recognising her outstanding achievements and potential to shape the future of the footwear industry.
The Pattenmakers’ Footwear Future Leader’s Award 2025 is presented annually to an exceptional individual in the footwear industry who demonstrates remarkable leadership, creativity and a commitment to drive positive change.
The scheme is open to young managers in footwear and facilities management with the winner receiving a unique development programme opportunity co-funded by the livery, as well as membership to the Company of Pattenmakers, the London-based livery company which received a Royal Charter in 1670.
Florence will also receive the Paice Memorial Bursary.
She was presented with the award last week at the annual banquet held at the Mansion House.
Florence said: “This recognition motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in the footwear industry and in my career. I’m grateful to already be part of a community of passionate individuals with a driving vision at Gardiner Bros, and look forward to taking on new collaborative projects and challenges with my team. It was a privilege to be nominated for this award and I am so looking forward to seeing what the next year holds.”
Florence has worked at Gardiners for five years, predominantly managing the iconic global footwear brand Hush Puppies. Since graduating with a 1st class degree in retail she has worked with a number of fashion brands and designers gaining experience in brand strategy and product design.
On her watch, Hush Puppies has seen a significant surge in popularity in the UK. Many of the styles are designed and developed locally with Florence leading the team.
Director and Chief Product Officer, Ben Gardiner said: “This honour recognises Florence's contribution and dedication to our company, the Hush Puppies brand and the footwear Industry. Florence has consistently excelled in the progression of the Hush Puppies brand increasing the brands turnover fivefold from 2018 - 2024."
Jane Wilson of The Worshipful Company of Pattenmakers says, “We were delighted to make this award to Florence who impressed the panel with her dedication and commitment to self-improvement and excellence. She has a clear vision of her business priorities, where she is going in her career and what she needs. She is a worthy winner and the Livery look forward to working with her developing her support plan over the coming year.”
