Kohl's Names British Retail Vet New Merchandising, Digital Officer
Days after appointing then-interim CEO Tom Kingsbury to the role full-time, department retailer Kohl’s has announced that 25-year retail veteran Nick Jones has been named chief merchandising and digital officer.
Jones’ role will take effect in March, and he will be responsible for the retailer’s overall merchandise strategy and all merchandising functions including buying, digital and omnichannel merchandising, product design and development, and product portfolio strategy.
"I'm thrilled to be joining Kohl's and love the strategic focus for today's customers who are living a more casual and comfortable lifestyle," said Jones. "I look forward to joining the team as we find fresh new ways to offer great products to our customers."
Jones has more than 25 years of merchandising, brand, retail, and leadership experience. Most recently, he served as CEO of Joules Group, the premium British lifestyle group, based in the United Kingdom that sells online and at 130 stores and 1,500 wholesale outlet partners, including Nordstrom and Dillard’s. Jones had held positions at major British retailers like ASDA/Walmart U.K. and Marks & Spencer as well.
"We are very excited to have Nick join our team and lead our merchandising organization as we continue our focus on the active and casual lifestyle while also accelerating our focus on product newness and innovation," said Kingsbury. "Nick has a tremendous wealth of experience in merchandising, retail, global sourcing, and business leadership. During his career, Nick's been the chief merchant for one of the U.K.’s biggest retailers, led multiple categories for department store Marks & Spencer, and was a key leader in the category and international expansion of the multi-billion dollar George brand. As we continue to build on our key national brands, enhance our proprietary product portfolio and drive newness for customers, we are confident that he is the right fit for our organization, our team and our customers."
Kohl’s currently operates more than 1,100 stores in 49 states.