Hudson, Ohio — Travis Smith joined Jo-Ann in July 2006 and served in various executive roles prior to being named CEO in August 2011.
Hudson, Ohio — Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, a leading fabric and craft retailer, has announced that Travis Smith is stepping down as the company’s president and chief executive officer, effective immediately.
The board of directors is now actively seeking a new CEO. Until a replacement has been identified, Jim Kerr, the company’s executive vice president and chief financial officer, will serve as interim chief executive officer of the company, while continuing in his current role as CFO. In his role as interim CEO, Kerr will partner with Riddi Kline, executive vice president of marketing and merchandising, and Tom Williams, executive vice president of operations and human resources, to manage the business. Collectively, these executive officers will leverage over 40 years of combined experience at Jo-Ann to continue executing on the company’s established strategic plan.
Smith joined Jo-Ann in July 2006 and served in various executive roles prior to being named CEO in August 2011.
“I am proud of our accomplishments at Jo-Ann,” says Smith. “Together we have expanded the reach of Jo-Ann by growing the store base, investing in omni-channel initiatives, and improving the customer experience.”
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, which has locations in 49 states, was founded in 1943 as a single retail store. Today, there are more than 830 Jo-Ann stores across the country. For more information, visit Joann.com.
SOURCE: Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores