Ascena Retail Group announces leadership changes

Ascena Retail Group has announced consolidation of its executive leadership structure as part of its efforts to reinvigorate top-line growth, enhance its culture of performance and accountability. As a part of the development, Gary Muto has been appointed to the newly created position of President and CEO of Ascena Brands, with responsibility for reinvigorating and driving top-line growth across Ascena’s full brand portfolio and Brian Lynch has been elevated to the position of President and COO of Ascena Retail Group.

Commenting on the new structure, David Jaffe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company said in a statement, “To date, our ‘Change for Growth’ transformation program has focused on the ‘change’ piece – a complete organizational reset with an emphasis on efficiency that we expect to deliver 250 to 300 million dollars in cost savings through fiscal 2019. Our new executive management structure will enable faster decision making, accelerate implementation of company-wide initiatives, and foster greater accountability.”

Ascena announces management changes to drive growth

The company said, Muto will continue to lead the company’s premium fashion segment, and will now also provide strategic direction and leadership for the company’s plus, value and kids fashion segments. His new role, Ascena added, complements the enterprise platform support responsibilities held by Lynch.

Lynch will continue to have responsibility for the company’s operating platform and infrastructure, and will remain focused on the development and delivery of top-tier enterprise capabilities in supply chain, technology, product sourcing, real estate, and non-merchandise procurement in support of the company’s brand portfolio. Both Muto and Lynch will continue to report to David Jaffe.

“Our segment teams will benefit from Gary’s deep knowledge of fashion merchandising, customer experience, and brand management as they work to reinvigorate and drive growth at our brands. And the continued maturity of our shared services platform under Brian’s leadership will enable our brands to meet evolving customer expectations and drive enterprise value,” added Jaffe.

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