EXECUTIVE MOVES: MACY’S, INC. APPOINTS ABIGAIL JAMES TO LEAD ITS DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION CENTER OF EXPERTISE

by John Russel Jones




Macy’s, Inc. has announced the appointment of Abigail James as SVP and Chief Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DE&I) Officer. In her new role, James will oversee Macy’s, Inc.’s DE&I programs. She will lead the company’s efforts to be the beacon of diversity, equity and inclusion for its colleagues, customers, and communities. James will be replacing Shawn Outler, who made the personal decision to leave Macy’s, Inc. at the end of May.

“We are excited for Abby to take on this important leadership role as we work to continue to deliver on the promise of Mission Every One,” said Danielle Kirgan, Chief Human Resources and Corporate Affairs Officer at Macy’s, Inc. “Abby’s long tenure with the company provides her with a deep understanding of the critical role that DE&I plays in advancing our business priorities, company culture, and go-forward strategy. She has been uniquely involved in guiding our organization through changing societal and cultural dynamics and has played an important role in our Diversity Equity Inclusion Business Council (DEIBC).”

James has been with Macy’s, Inc. for 27 years, most recently serving as SVP of Marketing – Customer Activation. She has also served as interim Chief Brand Officer and has broad experience across the enterprise in marketing, merchandising and financial planning and analysis. She serves as a member of the board of directors of New Yorkers for Children and has served on the board of directors of the U.S. Travel Association.

“Shawn is a courageous and inspirational leader, and we are incredibly grateful for her contributions over the past 28 years,” said Kirgan. “She created the company’s first DE&I Center of Expertise and was a key contributor in the development of Mission Every One and as a trusted advisor, instilled a commitment to DE&I across our organization.”

James will report to Kirgan and will begin assuming her new responsibilities on May 13, 2024.