LONGTIME JCPENNEY MERCHANT JOHN TIGHE LEAVES IN NEW ORGANIZATIONAL RESTRUCTURING

JCPenney has announced an organizational restructuring designed to streamline decision-making and promote greater agility within its merchandise buying teams.

In conjunction with this reorganization, the position of chief merchant has been eliminated and John Tighe will be leaving the company to pursue other opportunities. Jodie Johnson, SVP and senior general merchandise manager of women’s apparel, Sephora, salon, women’s specialty, footwear and handbags; James Starke, SVP and senior general merchandise manager of men’s apparel, children’s apparel and jewelry; and Val Harris, SVP of product development and design, will be reporting to chairman and CEO Marvin R. Ellison effective immediately.

Additionally, Tony Hurst, SVP and general merchandise manager of home, will have the added responsibility for custom window design and home services, as well as commercial sales, and will report to Joe McFarland, EVP of stores.

“Today’s executive realignment reflects a growing need to ensure our company remains nimble and flexible amid the constant change and transformation in the retail environment,” said Ellison. “I have the utmost confidence in our executive leaders who will continue to drive efficiency across their respective divisions and will be empowered to make dynamic buying decisions based on real-time customer data. This simplified structure offers greater flexibility, which is critical to ensuring our assortment remains fresh and relevant and compels more shoppers to choose JCPenney. Additionally, I want to thank John for his leadership, service, and loyalty to the company over the years. One of John’s greatest contributions to the company are the leaders he groomed and developed during his time at JCPenney. We wish him success in his future endeavors.”