San Francisco — Gap Inc. has appointed American fashion designer Zac Posen to executive vice president, creative director of Gap Inc. and chief creative officer of Old Navy, based in San Francisco. Posen is an award-winning creator and entrepreneur, celebrated for his technical excellence and body-positive designs. Over 25 years, his extensive career has included red-carpet couture, ready to wear, accessories, costume design and more. “I’m thrilled to welcome Zac Posen, one of America’s most celebrated designers, at the onset of an exciting new chapter for Gap Inc. His technical …
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Hartland, Wis. — Batteries Plus, the nation’s franchise leader in battery retail, has promoted Joe Malmuth to the position of chief development officer. In this new role, he will lead the brand’s robust plans for franchise growth and development. Malmuth has been with Batteries Plus for nearly 4 years, serving in a multitude of roles related to Batteries Plus’ franchise development arm, most recently as chief franchising officer. Malmuth’s tenure as chief franchising officer, a position he’s held since fall 2022, has been marked by significant achievements of the growth …
Beltsville, Md. — Marra Forni, an international manufacturer of artisan commercial brick oven cooking solutions, has hired Giulio Adriani in the new position of chief pizzaiolo officer. Adriani brings with him vast accomplishments including his experience as a successful pizza maker, pizzeria owner, instructor and industry expert. Adriani officially joined the organization in December 2023. Adriani comes to Marra Forni with over 30 years of cooking experience starting in the kitchen of his Naplese grandmother. He has opened a dozen successful and highly acclaimed pizza restaurants and consulted on nearly …
Katy, Texas — Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc. has appointed Robert (Rob) Howell to the role of senior vice president and chief supply chain officer. In this role, he will oversee supply chain operations, distribution centers, and domestic & international logistics. Howell will join the company in February 2024 and report to Sam Johnson, president of Academy. Howell brings nearly 30 years of supply chain, distribution and logistics experience to Academy. Previously, he spent nearly 20 years with Sysco Corporation, a wholesale restaurant food distributor, where he performed various supply …
Baton Rouge, La. — Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux has appointed Trey Hughes as senior director of franchise sales. The nationally renowned restaurant and sports bar has also hired Andy Izquierdo as its vice president of communications. “We are excited to welcome Andy Izquierdo and Trey Hughes to the Walk-On’s family. Their impressive backgrounds and proven track records align seamlessly with our commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience. As we continue our journey of expansion, their strategic insights and leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in further elevating Walk-On’s Sports …
Katy, Texas — Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc. has appointed Robert (Rob) Howell to the role of senior vice president and chief supply chain officer. In this role, Howell will oversee supply chain operations, distribution centers and domestic & international logistics. Howell will join Academy in February 2024 and report to Sam Johnson, president of Academy. Howell brings nearly 30 years of supply chain, distribution and logistics experience to Academy. Previously, he spent nearly 20 years with Sysco Corporation, a wholesale restaurant food distributor, where he performed various supply chain, …
Frisco, Texas — Layne’s Chicken Fingers, a growing chicken franchise with 13 restaurants open and another 113 sold, is welcoming part-owner Eric Reed as its new chief development officer to support the system’s ongoing growth. “My ultimate, long term goal is to get Layne’s to the point that all we have to do is put an Astro Chicken on the sign in front of the restaurant and people know who we are,” says Reed. “If we can get to that level of brand awareness, we’ve made it. That’s all we …
Nashville, Tenn. — Kirkland’s, Inc., a specialty retailer of home décor and furnishings, has promoted Amy Sullivan to chief executive officer, effective February 4, 2024; she will also join the company’s board of directors. She succeeds interim CEO Ann Joyce, who will remain on the board. Prior to Kirkland’s Home, Sullivan held senior-level positions for Express, Lands’ End, Kohl’s and JCPenney. Sullivan, who has been with the company for more than a decade, was promoted to president and chief operating officer in spring 2023. As a member of the executive …
Omaha, Neb. — Restaurant industry veteran John Owen joins Scooter’s Coffee as chief operating officer to help lead the successful, expanding drive-thru kiosk franchise model. “As we continue to set our sights on expanding our brand’s footprint and providing world-class coffee and customer service, we are delighted John has joined our Scooter’s Coffee family,” says Joe Thornton, CEO of Scooter’s Coffee. “I am confident John’s alignment with our core values and his extensive industry experience will allow us to build upon our brand promise to customers and help us drive …
Irvine, Calif. — As of Jan. 22, 2024, Ed Thomas has retired from his position as president and chief executive officer and as a director of Tilly’s, Inc., a specialty retailer with more than 250 stores. Hezy Shaked has been appointed to serve as interim president and CEO until a successor is in place. As co-founder and former president and CEO, Shaked has an in-depth knowledge and understanding of all facets of the company’s business and has developed extensive professional relationships during his over 40 years of experience in the …