J.Crew appoints new CEO
J.Crew Group has announced that Libby Wadle has been named as CEO, overseeing J.Crew and J.Crew Factory in addition to her current leadership responsibilities at Madewell.
It comes as the prior CEO, Jan Singer, has “decided to pursue other endeavours”.
Wadle brings 25 years of retail and apparel industry experience to her new role, having spent the last 16 years at J.Crew, where she has held senior management roles with each brand.
Most recently, she served as president and then CEO of Madewell. The brand reportedly experienced “significant, consistent growth” under her leadership.
Wadle said: “To be successful in today’s retail environment, brands must have a strong sense of purpose, deep connection with their customers, and an organisational structure that rewards creativity, agility and innovation.
“Moving forward as a company under unified leadership, we will harness the power of our collective platforms and talented teams to ensure our brands can continue to inspire and grow.”
Kevin Ulrich, chairman of J.Crew’s board of directors, said: “Libby’s connectivity to the J.Crew and Madewell brands, proven ability to build community both inside and outside the organisation, and track record of delivering excellent operating and financial performance make her the ideal person to lead J.Crew Group.
“Importantly, we thank Jan for her dedication and contributions to J.Crew and her partnership in leading the Company through a challenging year in our industry. We wish her the best in her future endeavours.”
