More Saks Inc. executives are preparing to leave the New York fashion retailer as its acquisition by Hudson’s Bay Co. Ltd. (Toronto) becomes finalized.
Women’s Wear Daily obtained an internal email by Saks chairman and ceo Stephen Sadove, himself about to leave the company, detailing some further personnel changes.
Robert Wallstrom, executive vp and president of the Saks Off 5th outlet division – and former manager of the Saks Manhattan flagship – reportedly will become ceo of Vera Bradley Designs Inc. (Fort Wayne, Ind.), the handbags, luggage and accessories retailer.
Also mentioned to be leaving Saks Inc. are Denise Incandela, evp and chief marketing officer; Terron Schaefer, evp and chief creative officer; Kevin Wills, evp and chief financial officer; Michael Rodgers, evp and chief information and operations officer; Mike Brizel, evp and general counsel; Chris Morena, evp of human resources, and Julia Bentley, svp of investor relations and communications.
The memo states that three members of Saks’ current executive committee are expected to remain: Jennifer de Winter, the evp of stores who was promoted to chief merchandising officer; Michael Burgess, president of Saks Direct; and Keith Campbell, group svp of merchandise planning.
Sadove had earlier announced his intention to depart once the deal was finalized, as did Ron Frasch, president and chief merchant. Neither said they had any immediate plans, though Sadove has joined the board of JC Penney Co. Inc. (Plano, Texas).
The acquisition is set to close on Monday, November 4.