Diversity & Inclusion

Vera Bradley has announced a new head of store development as it looks to reimagine Vera Bradley into a premium global lifestyle brand.

Harry Cunningham, who has nearly 25 years of experience in store design and visual merchandising, has been with Saks Fifth Avenue since 2006 and most recently held the post of SVP of Store Planning, Design and Visual Merchandising. Prior to that, Cunningham held various visual merchandising roles at Liz Claiborne, Saks Department Store Group and Dillard's.

Destination Maternity has appointed the managing partner of investment firm Voce Capital to the company's board of directors.

"As a long-term investor in Destination Maternity, we look forward to bringing additional shareholder perspective to the board and continuing to work constructively with the company to help enhance its value," J. Daniel Plants of Voce Capital said.

New York – Ann Inc., the parent company of Ann Taylor and Loft, has named Katie J. Bayne to its board of directors. Bayne serves as senior VP, global sparkling brands at The Coca-Cola Company.

Ann Inc. has named Coca-Cola executive Katie J. Bayne to its board of directors as the company looks to increase traffic and sales.

"Katie is an outstanding addition to Ann Inc.'s board of directors. She brings an exceptional background in strategic marketing and brand management that will add value to the company," said Ron Hovsepian, non-executive chairman of the board. "We're delighted to welcome her to the board and look forward to her insights and contributions."

DALLAS - The Container Store has long been lauded as one of the places to work—and now it looks like it’s also a great place to get married. The chain on Saturday celebrated the wedding of two 25+ year tenured employees—Greg Arechar and Lety Covarrubias—from its distribution Center,  at its headquarters. Co-founder and chairman emeritus Garrett Boone, an ordained officiant, led the ceremony.

Walmart has appointed Tom Horton, former chairman and CEO of American Airlines, as the 16th member of its board of directors. Horton will also serve on the audit committee.  

The merchandising organization at Walmart is being transformed again following the departure of EVP and Chief Merchandising Officer Duncan Mac Naughton, which triggered several other high level moves.