Retiring Polo

Polo Ralph Lauren Corp. (New York) announced that vice chairman Lance Isham will retire from the company in March 2004.

Isham joined Polo Ralph Lauren in 1981 as a sales representative based in Chicago. In 1988, he became senior vp of sales and merchandising. In 1992, Isham was promoted to executive vp of Polo Ralph Lauren men's company and in 1995 he assumed the position of president and coo of that company. In 1998, he was appointed corporate president and added the title of coo in 1999. He moved to the role of vice chairman in 2000 and was elected to the company's board of directors.

“During the past 22 years, Lance made many invaluable and important contributions to the growth and development of our company,” says Ralph Lauren, chairman and ceo. “He most recently led the integration and development of our global business focusing on Europe and the establishment of our new headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Throughout his entire career with us, Lance has devoted his efforts to building a world-class company and enhancing the reach and power of our unique brand. He will truly be missed.”

Brian Duffy, president and coo of Polo Europe will continue to have responsibility for all Polo Europe's day-to-day operations and will now report directly to Roger Farah, president and coo of Polo Ralph Lauren.

Polo Ralph Lauren's brand names include Polo, Polo by Ralph Lauren, Polo Sport, Ralph Lauren, Polo Jeans Co., Chaps and Club Monaco. The company operates about 240 retail and outlet stores in the U.S. and licenses more than 100 others worldwide