International Business

NEW YORK — Management consultancy Kurt Salmon announced John Karonis will move into the role of deputy chief executive officer and Brooks Kitchel, long-time retail specialist, will replace Karonis as head of the firm's global retail and consumer products group.

Washington, D.C. -- The National Retail Federation said it welcomed the emphasis on job creation in President Obama’s State of the Union address, saying that it will help restore the nation's economic state.

ALISO VIEJO, Calif. — Buy.com has announced that Bernard Luthi, a 15-year veteran of e-commerce, technology and consumer electronics, has joined the company as chief marketing officer. Previously, Luthi was VP marketing, web management and customer service at Newegg.com.

In his new role, Luthi will lead Buy.com’s marketing initiatives, including web site experience, advertising, BuyTV, public relations and promotions. In addition, he will work closely with Buy.com parent company Rakuten on overall corporate branding. 

Bensalem, Pa. -- Charming Shoppes has promoted Bryan Eshelman to executive VP, chief supply chain officer. Eshelman started with the chain in 2010 as senior VP operations.

Eshelman retains his previous duties of overseeing technology, logistics, technical design and quality assurance. His new responsibilities include directing the retailer’s global direct sourcing from buying offices in such locations as Hong Kong and India, and ensuring supply chain compliance with trade and customs regulations.

WASHINGTON — After President Barack Obama delivered his State of the Union address on Tuesday night, the National Retail Federation issued a response regarding his remarks on job creation.

NRF said it welcomed the President's emphasis on job creation, saying that it will help restore the nation's economic state.

MINNEAPOLIS — Target has promoted John Mulligan to the position of EVP and CFO, effective April 1. Mulligan currently serves as SVP finance. He replaces Doug Scovanner, Target’s EVP and CFO for the past 18 years, who announced his retirement in November 2011, effective March 31. 

New York City -- Coach Inc. reported Tuesday that net earnings for the quarter ended Dec. 31 rose 15% to $347.5 million, compared with $303.4 million in the year-ago period.

Sales increased 15% to $1.45 billion, beating Wall Street’s expected $1.43 billion in revenue.

LEXINGTON, Mass. — Collective Brands Performance and Lifestyle Group has announced the appointment of Rick Blackshaw as president of the Keds brand. Blackshaw has extensive footwear experience with brands including Converse, Timberland, and the former division of Reebok, Avia, and most recently served as VP and general manager for the Chuck Taylor All Star Division of Converse Inc. He will start in his new role Jan. 24 and succeeds Kristin Kohler Burrows who recently departed the position to pursue career opportunities closer to her home in New York.