2021 Alumni Professional Achievement Award Winner
The Haslam College of Business is renowned for its alumni, and among them is Molly Pitts Adams. From the Walt Disney Company to Fanatics, she is a star alumna with an acute business acumen.
Adams graduated in 1984 with a BS in marketing. She began working in retail soon after graduating and worked her way through progressively senior roles in marketing and merchandising, including as senior vice president and merchandise manager for Anchor Blue Retail Group, a chain with more than 300 locations.
In 2008, Adams joined Disney and served in several leadership roles. She is best known for her position as executive vice president of global merchandising and product development, both multibillion-dollar business areas. After 10 years with Disney, Adams was recruited by Caleres to be president of Famous Footwear. In 2020, Adams transitioned to a new position as the executive vice president/chief integration and transformation officer of Fanatics, an online retailer of licensed sportswear, sports equipment, and merchandise headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.
Adams is still connected with UT. She has traveled across the country numerous times to speak with classes and serve as a mentor. She has given generously to the university and remains a member of the Haslam College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council. In 2014, she was recognized as one of UT’s Accomplished Alumni.
The Haslam College of Business is renowned for its alumni, and among them is Molly Pitts Adams. From the Walt Disney Company to Fanatics, she is a star alumna with an acute business acumen.
Adams graduated in 1984 with a BS in marketing. She began working in retail soon after graduating and worked her way through progressively senior roles in marketing and merchandising, including as senior vice president and merchandise manager for Anchor Blue Retail Group, a chain with more than 300 locations.
In 2008, Adams joined Disney and served in several leadership roles. She is best known for her position as executive vice president of global merchandising and product development, both multibillion-dollar business areas. After 10 years with Disney, Adams was recruited by Caleres to be president of Famous Footwear. In 2020, Adams transitioned to a new position as the executive vice president/chief integration and transformation officer of Fanatics, an online retailer of licensed sportswear, sports equipment, and merchandise headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.
Adams is still connected with UT. She has traveled across the country numerous times to speak with classes and serve as a mentor. She has given generously to the university and remains a member of the Haslam College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council. In 2014, she was recognized as one of UT’s Accomplished Alumni.
