Kohl’s named Michael J. Bender as its new CEO, effective November 23, marking a decisive next step in the retailer’s push to regain stability and sharpen its long-term strategy. Bender has led the company as interim CEO since May 1 and will continue to serve on the Board.
Board Chair John Schlifske says Bender’s leadership over the past several months strengthened performance and advanced both short and long-term priorities. “Over the past several months as interim CEO Michael has proven to be an exceptional leader for Kohl’s – progressively improving results driving short and long-term strategy and positively impacting cultural change.”
Schlifske says that after a comprehensive external search the Board unanimously selected Bender to lead the company forward.
Bender says stepping into the permanent role reflects his belief in the company’s future and the people behind it. “Working with the teams over the last six months has deepened my love of this company and my conviction in what’s possible for our future. Kohl’s has a storied and important role in the retail industry serving and celebrating families with great products compelling value and a differentiated shopping experience. While we’re pleased by our recent progress we’re deeply motivated to accelerate our transformation.”
Bender brings more than three decades of leadership experience across retail and consumer goods. He previously served as President and CEO of Eyemart Express and held key executive roles at Walmart including COO of Global eCommerce and EVP and President of the Walmart West business. His background also includes senior positions at Cardinal Health, Victoria’s Secret for L Brands, and more than a decade at PepsiCo in sales finance and operations.
He has served on the Kohl’s Board since 2019 including as Board Chair before stepping into the interim CEO role. He will continue in his Board position as he leads the company’s next chapter alongside associates partners and vendors nationwide.
With Bender at the helm Kohl’s aims to strengthen customer focus reestablish leadership in key categories and accelerate a broader transformation designed to restore long-term growth.
The company is still wrestling with a years-long sales slide and is exploring ways to refresh merchandise improve in-store experiences and sharpen its value proposition across key categories. The work ahead will focus on strengthening customer trust and restoring consistency across operations as Kohl’s pushes to regain its footing in a crowded retail landscape.
Photo courtesy of Kohl’s
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