The Bon-Ton Stores Inc. has named Kathryn Bufano president and chief executive officer, effective Aug. 25. She will also be elected a director.
Bufano replaces Brendan Hoffman, who announced in March his plans to resign at the end of his three-year contract in February. He will assist Bufano with the transition and resign effective with her election.
Bon-Ton, parent company of Boston Store, has dual headquarters in Milwaukee and York, Pa. The company has reported several poor quarters since Hoffman joined the company in January 2012 from retailer Lord & Taylor LLC.
Bufano has served as president and chief merchandising officer of Belk Inc. since August 2010. She also previously served as chief executive officer of Vanity Shops Inc., executive vice president, general manager soft-lines for Sears Roebuck & Co., and president and chief merchandising officer at Dress Barn Inc.
“We are excited to have an executive with Kathryn’s talents and background assuming the role of president and chief executive officer of the company,” said Tim Grumbacher, chairman and chief strategic officer. “Her years of experience in the department store industry will allow her to refine and drive the strategic growth initiatives we have put in place over the last several years. We look forward to Kathryn joining our team and leading the future success of our company.”
“I am excited to have the opportunity to lead the Bon-Ton team,” Bufano said. “I have great confidence in the company’s future and I look forward to working with management and the board in executing a successful strategic plan and increasing shareholder value.”
Bon-Ton operates 272 stores in 25 states.
