Wolverine Worldwide has elevated Chris Hufnagel to the role of global brand manager of Merrell, the largest brand in its portfolio. He replaces Sue Rechner, who is leaving the company after two years in the post. Hufnagel is a 10-year veteran of the American group. Among other roles, he served as president of consumer direct operations and senior vice president and head of corporate strategy. As co-chief transformation officer, he helped develop the Wolverine Way Forward initiative, which has already been applied to Merrell and other brands within the group. He also started Wolverine's consumer insights and market intelligence program. Hufnagel has been serving most recently as global brand present for Cat Footwear. Before joining the group, he worked for Under Armour, Gap and Abercombie & Fitch.