Yankee Candle Makes Executive Appointments

The Yankee Candle Company Inc. (South Deerfield, Mass.), a designer, manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer of premium scented candles, has promoted Deborah Norris to vp, general merchandise manager, merchandise planning and allocation. In addition, Hope Margala Klein, senior vp, brand, design and innovation, will assume responsibility for the company's gift and accessory development teams.

Norris has held several key retail leadership positions at Yankee Candle since she joined the company in 2001. In her new position, Norris will be responsible for retail planning and allocation, category management, visual merchandising, store marketing and promotions, as well as the company's consumer direct business. She previously held the position of vp, consumer direct, fundraising and outlet businesses.

“These moves are part of Yankee Candle's ongoing commitment to invest in and develop a best-in-class organization focused on category management expertise, optimized product assortment and offerings, and enhanced productivity,” says ceo Harlan Kent. “Throughout Norris’ tenure at Yankee Candle, she has demonstrated a unique, flexible yet results-oriented leadership style allowing her to successfully drive revenue growth in her channels and keep teams motivated. She will be instrumental as we evolve the company and continue to focus on creating and implementing industry-leading retail business practices.”

Yankee Candle also announced two additional appointments to key senior management positions. Ben Menezes was named vp, wholesale finance and operations, and Steve Richardson was named vp, retail finance and fundraising.

The retailer sells its products through a North American wholesale customer network of approximately 20,200 store locations, 515 company owned and operated retail stores, direct mail catalogs and its website. Outside of North America, the company sells its products primarily through its subsidiary, Yankee Candle Company (Europe), Ltd., which has an international wholesale customer network of approximately 5000 stores in 47 countries.