The Bon-Ton Stores Inc., a department store chain, has announced that William Tracy, company’s current Chief Operating Officer, will now take up the responsibilities of President and Chief Executive Officer, with effect from 25th August, 2017 succeeding Kathryn Bufano, who has resigned from the company. With more than 40 years of retail experience in the areas of operations, supply chain management and logistics, Tracy has previously held various management positions at Hudson’s Bay Company, Fortunoff Brands LLC and Nine West Corporation, Lord & Taylor and Abraham & Straus Department Stores.
Meanwhile, Bufano will remain as company’s CEO through the transition period to ensure an orderly and effective leadership transition. Under her guidance, Bon-Ton instituted ‘Your Store, Your Style’ rebranding initiative, which included elevating merchandise assortment with new brand introductions, enhancing customer rewards programmes, and successfully launching localization strategy.
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In another development, Chad Stauffer, Bon-Ton’s current General Merchandise Manager, has been named EVP, Chief Merchandising Officer. He will be responsible for leading the Company’s merchandising strategy.
With a long track record of success in merchandising, Stauffer has spent over nine years at Bon-Ton. He previously worked at Belk Department stores, Sports Authority, Kohl’s, JCPenney, and May Department Stores.
Tim Grumbacher, Chairman of the Board, Bon-Ton commented, “We look forward to working with Bill as we continue to drive forward on our strategic initiatives and position the brand for long term success. In addition, Chad brings great insight and experience to his new role. We look forward to his contributions as he leads the team to ensure that Bon-Ton continues to have a differentiated and compelling merchandise offering that closely aligns with the shopping needs of our customers.”
