Michael Francis, chief global brand officer at DreamWorks, has joined the board of directors of Xcel Brands.

The global brand management firm owns and manages such labels at Isaac Mizrahi, Judith Ripka and H Halston.

“We are thrilled to have Michael Francis join our board of directors,” says Robert D'Loren, chairman and chief executive officer, Xcel Brands. “Michael brings incredible marketing, leadership, innovation, and extensive branding experience to our board and Xcel, and we look forward to working with him in this new capacity."

Prior to joining DreamWorks, Francis was the founder and chief executive officer of Farview Associates, a brand development agency focused on the creation of new brands and the support of established global brands. His prior experience includes positions as president of J.C. Penney and more than 26 years with Target, most notably as the global chief marketing officer, where he was a key architect of the retailer's Cheap Chic differentiation strategy. Advertising Age previously named Francis one of the world's top marketers, and Business Week and Fast Company have previously listed him as one of the top global innovators.

“I'm honored to join the Xcel Board and look forward to working with my colleagues and management to support and advance their vision to reimagine shopping, entertainment, and social as one," he says.