Italian luxury sneaker maker Golden Goose has plans to grow its business in the Asia-Pacific region in part by investing in its people and placing them at the heart of its operations. Inside Retail spoke with Mauro Maggioni, Golden Goose’s CEO in Apac, about its people-first strategy, internal education programs for staff and receiving ‘Top Employer’ certification from the Netherlands-based Top Employers Institute. Inside Retail: What is your vision for Golden Goose in Apac, and how does a
does achieving Top Employer status align with it?
Mauro Maggioni: Golden Goose’s Apac strategy is closely aligned with our global vision and brand philosophy, which emphasises authenticity and uniqueness.
We are deeply committed to fostering a culture where individuality is celebrated, and this commitment is reflected in our achievements this year.
We successfully earned Top Employer certification across all the geographies where we have a headquarters, marking significant milestones: the fourth consecutive year in Italy, the third year in the United States, the second year in China, and – for the first time – in South Korea.
This recognition underscores our dedication to placing people and their talents at the heart of everything we do, generating value and fostering growth within our teams.
IR: What does this mean for the brand in Australia?
MM: Australia holds a significant role within the Apac region and continues to be a key focus for growth, with new store openings planned for 2025.
At Golden Goose, inclusivity is a fundamental pillar of our identity.
We are dedicated to inspiring positive change and creating opportunities for everyone, including our local Australian team, ensuring they feel valued and empowered as we expand our presence in the region.
IR: How does your people-first strategy address inclusivity across Apac’s diverse markets?
MM: At Golden Goose, our approach centres on people – fostering a deep sense of belonging and emotional connection. We aim to create a global community of dreamers, from all ages and backgrounds, united by shared values.
We’ve moved beyond traditional marketing to offer immersive experiences that engage clients personally. In our stores, they can authentically express themselves and participate in the creative process through co-creation. Unlike brands that focus solely on designer-driven concepts, we prioritise consumers’ input, integrating it into our creations.
IR: How is the Golden Goose Academy influencing Apac operations, and are there plans to localise it in Australia?
MM: At the heart of Golden Goose’s commitment to craftsmanship, tradition and people, the Golden Goose Academy was inaugurated in October 2024 at Haus Marghera in Venice. The Academy serves as an innovative cultural hub, offering professional growth opportunities for both current employees and external talents.
Through programs like the One-Year Dream Maker Program, participants develop expertise in sneaker repair and co-creation, blending tradition, innovation and contemporary design.
The Academy fosters creativity and craftsmanship, shaping a new generation of Dream Makers and encouraging individuality. It also acts as a global training centre, hosting panels and preparing our employees from all over the world for their roles, to transmit brand culture and craftsmanship.
IR: What impact has the Experience Pathfinder project had on talent development in Apac?
MM: The Experience Pathfinder project is designed to guide individuals on their career journey and support their professional growth.
Through an interactive map, employees can identify roles they qualify for and understand the skills required for specific positions across departments.
This initiative enables employees from other regions to explore opportunities in Apac, while Apac employees can venture into other markets, fostering cross-regional mobility and new career experiences.
IR: What is the business’s partnership with Mygrants?MM: In line with its commitment to fostering social equity and growth, Golden Goose has partnered with Mygrants, an organisation dedicated to upskilling and reskilling individuals from migrant backgrounds to overcome job market barriers. This partnership underscores Golden Goose’s dedication to breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive global community.