Claire's nabs Sam's chief merchant to head North America division

CHICAGO — Former Sam's Club exec, Linda Hefner Filler, has joined Claire’s Stores, as North America president, effective March 1. She will report to Jim Fielding, CEO.

In her role as resident, Hefner Filler will be responsible for all operational and strategic initiatives for the Claire’sbusiness in the approximately 1,500 Claire’s stores in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Her responsibilities will encompass implementing enhancements to our Claire’s store design to improve the in-storeshopping experience for our customers, building on the strengths of our Claire’s brand, and expanding the company's e-commercereach and business.

Hefner Filler most recently served as EVPand chief merchandising officer for Sam’s Club. Prior to that role, she served as EVPand general manager of the Wal-Mart Stores Home Division for three years. Prior to Wal-Mart, sheserved in a variety of key executive roles at Kraft Foods and Sara Lee Corporation.

Jim Fielding, CEO of Claire’s Stores, Inc., commented, “Linda’s experience and expertise in the areas of retail operations,strategic planning, brand management and business analysis will serve her well in her new role. She is known for herability to build and lead talented teams toward a common vision. I am excited to add a talent of her caliber to our senior executive team. She is an inspirational leader and communicator, and I look forward to working with her in this newrole to drive the North American Claire’s business.”