Build-A-Bear Workshop has new product chief

Build-A-Bear Workshop has appointed Jennifer Kretchmar as chief product officer and innovation bear. She will report to CEO Sharon John.



Kretchmar will lead the company's merchandising and product development teams and be responsible for product development, design, quality, sourcing, merchandising, planning and wholesale.



"Jenn is a seasoned merchandising executive with 20 years of experience in senior leadership roles with both toys and children's products," said John. "I am pleased to have her join the team and confident that she will bring valuable perspective as we evolve our business model to leverage the strength of the Build-A-Bear Workshop brand and drive future growth."



Kretchmar most recently held the position of SVP of product and brand management with the Stride Rite Children's Group of Wolverine World Wide where she was responsible for the global product creation strategy for a diverse portfolio of children's footwear brands including Stride Rite, Sperry Top-Sider, Saucony, Keds, Merrell, Robeez, Jessica Simpson and Hush Puppies. She also has experience in a number of business models including specialty retail, wholesale and international franchising. Kretchmar completed her undergraduate studies at San Francisco State University and graduate courses at The Monterey Institute of International Studies.