The Children’s Place is reinforcing its executive team with three key appointments aimed at driving future business strategies. John Szczepanski, a seasoned finance executive, will join the company as chief financial officer (CFO) on 31st March 2025. His extensive experience, including previous roles at Vince Holding Corp. and Ralph Lauren, is expected to be pivotal in guiding the company’s financial direction.
President and interim CEO Muhammad Umair emphasised the importance of Szczepanski’s background, stating that his “wealth of finance experience in retail and manufacturing” will be crucial during the company’s “critical time” of implementing new business strategies. Szczepanski will report directly to Umair.
In addition to the CFO appointment, The Children’s Place has also strengthened its sourcing and marketing divisions. Kristin Clifford rejoined the company on 3rd February 2025, as senior vice president, head of sourcing. Clifford brings substantial sourcing expertise from Vineyard Vines and previously held leadership positions at The Children’s Place.
Smeeta Khetarpaul joined the company on 24th February 2025, as senior vice president, head of marketing. Khetarpaul brings over two decades of marketing experience from prominent consumer brands, including Crocs.
Both Clifford and Khetarpaul will report to brand president Claudia Lima-Guinehut, further enhancing the company’s strategic leadership across essential departments. These strategic appointments signal The Children’s Place’s commitment to bolstering its leadership team with experienced professionals to navigate its future development.
