Ex-Old Navy prez named president of Sean John

NEW YORK Sean John has announced former Old Navy president Dawn Robertson as its new president, effective immediately. Robertson will work directly with Sean "Diddy" Combs, founder and ceo, and will be responsible for all areas of Sean John operations.

Robertson most recently served as president of Old Navy where during her two-year tenure, she repositioned and stabilized one of the largest specialty companies in the world. Previously, she served as managing director of Australia's leading department store, Myer, where she developed and executed new strategies, enhancing the image and profitability of the department store. Before Myer, Robertson served as president and chief merchandising officer of Federated Direct, a division of Federated Department Stores, overseeing the online and catalog businesses for Macy's and Bloomingdale's. She has also held senior positions at Federated Merchandising Group and the May Company.

Sean Combs said, "We are very excited to have Dawn join the Sean John team on the eve of our 10-year anniversary. As the new president, she will help continue the dynamic growth and expansion of our brand. Her experience in fashion retail is a great asset to the Sean John brand."

"This is a great opportunity and exciting challenge," said Robertson. "Sean's marketing genius combined with his design inspiration creates enormous value in the Sean John brand. Our plan is to build this brand into an international powerhouse."