Levi Strauss names new CEO and president

Clothing retailer Levi Strauss and Co has announced the appointment of Michelle Gass to the position of president, effective from 2 January 2023 when she is also expected to join the company’s board of directors. 

The news comes as Levi’s reportedly plans for Gass to succeed Chip Bergh as CEO within the next 18 months.  

In her new role, Gass will report to Bergh, president and CEO, and take responsibility for leading the brand and the company’s global, digital and commercial operations. 

It is reported that prior to her appointment, Gass led the transformation strategy at Kohl’s to position the company for long-term growth. She has also driven a significant reinvention effort for more than 1,100 Kohl’s stores, while growing the digital business at a double-digit compounded annual growth rate to more than $6bn (£5.05bn). 

In addition, during her time at Starbucks, she reportedly held numerous leadership roles over nearly 17 years and was “instrumental” in leading many successful product innovations, including expanding the Frappuccino blended beverage brand and launching the Starbucks loyalty program. Her last assignment at Starbucks was as president, Starbucks EMEA, leading their European, Middle East and Africa business.

Bob Eckert, chairman of Levi’s board of directors, said: “We are delighted that an executive with Michelle’s background, experience and stature is joining as president to work side-by-side with Chip for a meaningful transition period before becoming CEO. 

“Michelle’s deep retail and omni-channel experience combined with her track record of building brands and meaningful innovation is a perfect fit for the skills needed to lead this company for the long term and create significant value for our stakeholders.”

Bergh said: “One of my biggest legacies at Levi’s will be my successor, passing the baton to someone who will take the company to the next level. I am thrilled not just about Michelle being my successor, but also about having the chance to work closely together during the transition. 

“She has a track record of building brands and talent. Michelle also brings more than 25 years of retail and omni-channel experience, along with a demonstrated track record of innovation, driving transformational ‘big ideas’ not just on products but also business models. With this move, I am even more confident in this company’s future.” 

Gass added: “I am thrilled to join Levi’s, with its iconic brands, incredible team and unwavering commitment to corporate citizenship. With the Levi’s brand stronger than ever, Dockers reinvigorated and the Beyond Yoga acquisition expanding the company’s addressable market, I look forward to working alongside Chip and his talented team to realise the incredible potential for the business in the years to come.”