CEO change takes effect at Ollie's
The new CEO of Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Holdings, Inc. has officially taken the reins of the company.
Eric Van der Valk was appointed as president and chief executive of the closeout retailer on Feb. 2. Last June, Ollie’s announced that former CEO John Swygert would transition to the role of executive chairman in early 2025, and that Van der Valk would take over as CEO. Van der Valk joined Ollie’s in 2021 as executive VP and COO and was promoted to president last June.
Prior to joining Ollie’s, he served as president and COO of Christmas Tree Shops. Van der Valk spent more than 15 years with the retailer.
[READ MORE: Ollie’s Bargain Outlet buying up Big Lots leases; new CEO to take reins in February]
“I am honored to continue to serve our associates, customers, and business partners as the next CEO of Ollie’s,” said Van der Valk. “I appreciate John’s mentorship and the trust he and the board have placed in me to lead the continued growth of our company. It’s truly a privilege to work with the most talented and committed team in this business. I look forward to delivering the thrill of shopping for ‘good stuff cheap’ to millions of customers in the years to come.”
In addition to the CEO promotion, Van der Valk was also added to the Ollie’s board of directors.
“Today’s appointments are the culmination of years of work on succession planning by the board,” said Rich Zannino, the lead independent director of the retailer’s board. “During Eric’s time at Ollie’s, he has led foundational changes that have not only driven execution and results but also positioned Ollie’s for sustainable long-term growth. His closeout, deep discount, merchandising and operational experience make him the ideal candidate to succeed John as president and CEO.”
Based in Harrisburg, Pa., Ollie’s is America’s largest retailer of closeout merchandise and excess inventory and operates 562 stores in 31 states.
