Menomonee Falls-based Kohl’s Corp. has eliminated three top leadership positions in an effort to streamline its business operations.
The company did away with the roles of executive vice president, chief digital officer, which was held by Krista Berry; senior vice president, store environment & development, held by Paul Calderon; and senior vice president, communications and public relations, held by Bevin Bailis. A Kohl’s representative said in a statement the company made the change, as well as other organizational adjustments, to make itself more nimble.
“None of these moves signal any change in our strategic direction,” said Jen Johnson, vice president of corporate communications at Kohl’s. “We remain committed to the strategic framework of the Greatness Agenda. Our initiatives under the Greatness Agenda have driven positive comparable sales growth over the past five consecutive quarters. While we are proud of the work we’ve accomplished in changing our sales trajectory, we are committed to accelerating the pace of our results.
“While leadership reorganizations are never easy, we are committed to making changes that benefit the long-term health and success of Kohl’s.”
Johnson and other Kohl’s representatives would not provide further comment.
Kohl’s Corp. operates 1,165 Kohl’s department stores in 49 states. Earlier this year, Kohl’s created several new leadership positions, including chief operating officer and chief administrative officer.
Kohl’s, like many retailers, has struggled in recent quarters as consumers spend more of their money on experiences and shift their retail spending from brick-and-mortar stores to a variety of retailers online. Its recent holiday sales update showed some growth, but not as much as expected. Last month, a Wall Street Journal report indicated the company may be planning to go private or break up.
The company’s fourth quarter and full-year earnings report will be released Feb. 25.
