Destination XL appoints James Olsson as chief growth officer

Big + Tall men’s clothing retailer Destination XL Group, Inc. (DXL) has appointed James Olsson as executive vice president and chief growth officer.

Olsson worked closely with DXL since September 2025 in a consulting capacity, providing him with an understanding of the business, customer base and growth opportunities. In this newly created role, Olsson will be responsible for accelerating the integrated-commerce growth strategy. He will oversee direct businesses, retail stores, merchandising, planning, global sourcing and brand strategy.

DXL chairman and interim chief executive officer, Lionel Conacher, said: “Jimmy brings a rare combination of entrepreneurial vision, merchant instinct and proven omnichannel leadership.” Conacher added: “His experience building brands, driving growth and leading teams across merchandising, stores, digital and supply chain makes him exceptionally well suited to help shape DXL's next chapter.”

Olsson brings more than two decades of senior executive, growth and merchandising leadership across high-profile apparel and retail brands. Prior to joining DXL, he advised sustainable brand Outerknown, including serving as its chief growth officer; he also served as chief growth officer and general manager on a full-time advisory basis at apparel label Tommy John.

Previously, Olsson was CEO and co-founder of menswear brand Todd Snyder, leading the business from inception through its acquisition by American Eagle Outfitters. Earlier in his career, Olsson was an officer at US Walmart; served as president and CEO of Australian surfwear group Rip Curl North America; and held senior merchandising roles at Coach, American Eagle Outfitters and Gap.

“DXL has built a distinctive brand, a loyal customer base and an important leadership position in a market with meaningful opportunity ahead,” Olsson said. “I am honored to join the team and look forward to working across the organization to accelerate our strategy, strengthen the customer experience and bring even greater energy and innovation to how we serve the big + tall customer.”