Another former J.C. Penney exec joins Lowe’s

7/20/2018
Lowe’s Companies has named a new leader to oversee store performance across its many divisions.

The home improvement giant on Friday named Joseph M. McFarland III as executive VP, stores, effective Aug. 15. In this role, McFarland will oversee the north, south and west divisions, Orchard Supply Hardware, pro and services businesses, operations engineering, and asset protection for the organization.

McFarland will report to Marvin R. Ellison, president and CEO. Ellison just took the helm at Lowe’s on July 2, replacing Robert A. Niblock, who previously announced his intention to retire. Previously, Ellison was chairman and CEO of J.C. Penney, where he has been working to turnaround the chain to mixed results.

"Joe is a strategic, results-oriented retail executive who excels at achieving operational excellence, financial management and brand positioning to deliver top and bottom line results," said Ellison. "Importantly, he is an exceptional leader with a proven record of driving sales and implementing omnichannel initiatives on a large scale. We are excited for Joe to join the Lowe's team, and look forward to benefiting from his valuable experience and leadership.”

Most recently, McFarland served as executive VP and chief customer officer at J.C. Penney, alongside Ellison. During his tenure, he oversaw the company's stores, operations and merchandise strategies.

Prior to that, McFarland spent 22 years at The Home Depot. During this tenure, he held various roles, including serving as president of the northern and western divisions from 2007 to 2015. Here, he led the largest sales volume division in the company, producing $36 billion in annual revenue and record profits.

Before taking on the division president roles, McFarland served as regional VP, NY metro region, from 2005 to 2007. Here, he managed all aspects of store operations and merchandising and led the region to two consecutive years as the top performing region in the company.

He also served as district manager of The Home Depot from October 1999 to March 2003. McFarland began his career with The Home Depot as an electrical sales associate in southern California. He held various store positions, including department supervisor; assistant store manager; store manager and district manager.

"I have long admired Lowe's and the dedicated associates who serve customers in a competitive omnichannel environment,” said McFarland. “I look forward to working closely with Marvin and Lowe's outstanding associates as we optimize store operations, further the company's omnichannel strategy and drive enhanced customer experiences.”
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