Human Resources

J.Crew Group is in a reorganization mode as it look to better position itself for growth.   The apparel retailer announced several strategic changes across its organization, including reducing headcount. Approximately 150 full-time and 100 open positions are being cut, mostly from corporate headquarters.     

Albertsons Cos. on Monday appointed the president of its Jewel-Osco division, Mike Withers as  executive VP, retail operations, Albertsons.   Withers will lead the company's East Region operations, while current executive VP, retail operations Susan Morris will lead the West Region. Jim Perkins, executive VP, retail operations Special Projects, is focused on targeted initiatives to accelerate growth. All three executives will continue to report to Wayne Denningham, president and COO, ALbertsons.  

A convenience store giant has a solution that it hopes will solve a labor shortage — and simultaneously speed up checkout.   7-Eleven Japan is teaming up with four other major convenience store operators in the country to introduce radio frequency identification (RFID)-based point-of-sale solutions — a move that will automate the checkout experience and fight an employee shortage, according to Bloomberg.  

Sears Holdings has a new finance chief — again.   The struggling retailer announced that Rob Riecker, currently controller and head of capital market activities, has been appointed CFO, effective immediately. He replaces Jason Hollar, who resigned “to pursue another career opportunity,” the retailer said. Hollar was appointed to the role in October 2016.  

As Congress reconvenes after the Easter recess, retail operators have a tremendous amount at stake. The industry is in an unprecedented state of strife with major legacy brands announcing large scale closures.   

Amazon’s distribution fleet is once again bolstering its breadth.   The online giant plans to open three additional fulfillment centers in New Jersey. The new sites in Cranbury Township, Edison and Logan Township, a move that will create more than 2,500 new, full-time jobs.   

VF Corp. is getting a new technology leader.   Martin Schneider, the company’s VP and CIO will retire at the end of 2017. Sandra Harris, VP, global business technology, will succeed Schneider as VP and CIO, effective Jan. 1, 2018. Harris also has been appointed to VF’s senior leadership team.  

Albertsons Companies has appointed Wayne Denningham, currently executive VP and COO, to the new role of president and COO for Albertsons Companies. Denningham will continue to lead store operations with added oversight of marketing & merchandising, supply chain, manufacturing, and integration, all of which will continue under their current leadership.