Kohl's Appoints Kingsbury to CEO Role

Department retailer Kohl’s has announced that interim CEO Tom Kingsbury will remain with the company in the role of CEO.

Kingsbury was named interim CEO in November ahead of the then-impending departure of CEO Michelle Gass. He brings more than 40 years of retail experience to the CEO position, having held executive leadership and board roles at Kohl’s, Burlington Stores, Inc., and The May Department Stores Company. 

“Tom’s exceptional track record growing retail businesses and his deep knowledge of Kohl’s makes him the right choice for Kohl’s next CEO,” said Kohl’s Board Chair Peter Boneparth. “Since joining the board, Tom has added valuable insight and perspective, and as interim CEO, he has demonstrated strong leadership and made a meaningful and positive impact on the organization. The board has the full confidence in Tom's ability to drive the business forward, focusing on accelerating sales and profitability, and we look forward to our continued work together."

Kingsbury led Burlington Stores, Inc. as president and CEO from 2008 to 2019 and served on the Burlington Stores Board of Directors from 2008 to 2020, including as chairman from 2014 to 2019 and as executive chairman from 2019 to 2020.

“This is a pivotal time for Kohl’s, and I am excited and energized to work with our talented team to elevate our performance and create value,” said Kingsbury. “During the last few months, I have seen the passion and dedication of the Kohl’s team and the unique value we can bring to our customers nationwide. I look forward to partnering with the Board and leadership team to build on our strengths and deliver on our strategy for our shareholders and other stakeholders.”

Kohl’s operates 100 stores in 49 states.