MEET THE FOOTWEAR DESIGN EXPERTS & INDUSTRY CONSULTANTS BEHIND SCHWILLIAMZ
ANN WILLIAMS – FOOTWEAR DESIGN & INDUSTRY EXPERT
With extensive experience across the U.S. and U.K., Ann is a renowned footwear design expert and subject matter specialist, providing award-winning designs and trusted industry insights to brands, retailers, and legal professionals worldwide.
Expertise in Footwear Design & Strategy
Ann’s expertise spans footwear design, development, retail, marketing, licensing, and manufacturing, making her a sought-after consultant for both established brands and startups looking to create trend-right, commercially successful products.
Expert Witness & Subject Matter Expertise
As a footwear subject matter expert and expert witness, Ann supports intellectual property litigation, patent disputes, and other footwear-related legal matters. Trusted by leading law firms, she provides expert testimony and in-depth industry analysis that clarifies complex footwear issues for legal proceedings. Learn more about our expert witness services.
Industry Leadership & Background
Before founding Schwilliamz, Ann served as Director of Design & Product at the Stride Rite Corporation and held key roles at Reebok International and Clark’s in Somerset, England. She holds an Honors degree in Fashion Design, Footwear Specialization from DeMontfort University in Leicester, England.
DEAN SCHWARTZ – FOOTWEAR INDUSTRY STRATEGIST & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEAD
With a background in advertising, retail, and consumer insights, Dean plays a critical role in guiding footwear brands and startups through market trends, product strategy, and design development.
Guiding Brands & Startups to Success
Dean is actively involved in every stage of the footwear design and development process, from trend and consumer research to material selection, color direction, and prototype refinement.
Driving Business Growth & Client Success
Dean also leads business development, client relations, marketing, and contracts at Schwilliamz, ensuring strong industry partnerships and seamless project execution.
Dean holds a degree from Colby College and a postgraduate degree from Case Western Reserve University.
“They’re as thoroughly invested in the product and the end results as the client. Their technical knowledge yields better footwear and savings for the client by reducing sampling costs and requiring fewer rounds of revisions. The Schwilliamz team is well equipped to successfully handle projects of all shapes and sizes. And, they’re fun, upbeat and easygoing.”