Kohl’s names CEO
Kohl’s Corp. has ended its search for a new chief executive.
The department store retailer said that its board has has unanimously appointed Michael J. Bender as CEO, effective Nov. 23, 2025. Bender, 64, has served as Kohl’s interim chief executive since May 1, 2025. He was appointed to the role following the termination of Ashley Buchanan “for cause,” after an investigation found that Buchanan violated company policies “by directing Kohl’s to engage in vendor transactions that involved undisclosed conflicts of interest.”
Bender, who is the chain’s third CEO in three years, will remain on the Kohl's board. He has been a director since 2019, including serving as board chair from May 2024 until he was appointed interim CEO.
Bender was president and CEO of Eyemart Express from January 2018 to April 2022, after serving as president from September 2017 to January 2018. Prior to Eyemart Express, he held various executive management positions at Walmart Inc., including serving as COO of global e-commerce and executive VP and president of the Walmart West business unit.
Prior to joining Walmart, held senior positions at Cardinal Health, and Victoria’s Secret for L Brands, Inc.
“Over the past several months as interim CEO, Michael has proven to be an exceptional leader for Kohl's — progressively improving results, driving short and long-term strategy, and positively impacting cultural change," said board chair John Schlifske. "With three decades of leadership experience across retail and consumer goods companies and a deep commitment to the Kohl's brand, we are confident Michael will continue to lead the company forward in a way that will benefit our associates, customers, and shareholders."
Kohl’s operates more than 1,100 stores in 49 states.
"Working with the teams over the last six months has deepened my love of this company and my conviction in what's possible for our future," said Bender. "Kohl's has a storied and important role in the retail industry, serving and celebrating families with great products, compelling value, and a differentiated shopping experience. I'm looking forward to reestablishing our leadership position by putting our customers first every day. While we're pleased by our recent progress, we're deeply motivated to accelerate our transformation — together with our partners, vendors, and incredible Kohl's associates all across the country."
