Apparel retailer searching for a new CEO

As it turns out, high-fashion and Lands’ End weren’t perfect together.



Less than two years after she took the reins of Lands’ End, Federica Marchionni has stepped down as CEO. Two current Lands’ End executives—James Gooch, executive VP, COO and CFO, and Joseph Boitano, executive VP and chief merchandising and design officer—were named as interim co-CEOs, effective September 26, while the company searches for a permanent replacement.



Marchionni, who previously worked at fashion house Dolce & Gabbana USA, tried to put a more stylish, fashion-forward spin on Lands’ End, both in the look of its catalog and clothing, which has traditionally tended to be on the conservative and outdoorsy side. But the move didn’t sit well with customers. Annual sales have fallen for four consecutive years and net income for two. Net revenue in its most recent quarter, ended July 29, was $292.0 million as compared to $312.4 million last year.



Marchionni also drew heat when Lands' End, which sells uniforms to Catholic schools, featured an interview with feminist and abortion-rights activist Gloria Steinem in its spring catalog.



Lands’ End was spun off from Sears Holdings Corp. in 2014.