Changes at Chico's

Chico's FAS Inc. (Fort Myers, Fla.), a seller of exclusively designed, private-label women's clothing and related accessories under the Chico's, White House | Black Market and Soma by Chico's names, has made several key management appointments and changes.

Charles Nesbit Jr. has been appointed by the board of directors as the company's coo, expanding on his current duties. In this expanded role, Nesbit, who will now hold the position of executive vp, coo, will oversee company operations, with a special focus on logistics and supply chain functions, outlet store operations, the Soma intimate apparel initiative, strategic planning and business development. Charles Kleman, who had maintained the dual role of cfo and coo since November 2003, will remain cfo.

“Chuck had a distinguished brand building career at Sara Lee, making him a logical choice to direct our operations,” said Scott Edmonds, president and ceo of Chico's. “Chuck's new responsibilities in the Soma and sourcing initiatives will allow him to more directly apply his knowledge of intimate apparel to Soma, with the hope of more rapidly developing this exciting brand.”

Nesbit joined the Company in August 2004 and most recently served as executive vp, operations, having been promoted from senior vp, strategic planning and business development, in April 2005. Prior to joining Chico's, Nesbit spent 20 years at the Sara Lee Corp.

Additionally, the company announced that James Frain, executive vp — chief marketing officer, will step down from his position over the next seven to twelve months. Frain has agreed to remain in his current role until February 28, 2006, and will work closely with the company to identify his successor. Mori MacKenzie, executive vp — chief stores officer, will now have real estate and store construction reporting to her, in addition to store operations. Also, Michael Elleman has joined the company as senior vp — real estate. Elleman most recently served as senior vp, real estate and construction, for Charlotte Russe.