Ex-Staples exec named CEO of eBags

The former head merchant for Staples has been named president and CEO of eBags Inc.

The eBags board of directors appointed Mike Edwards as president, CEO and member of the board of directors effective immediately. He also joins the company as a new investor.

Edwards most recently held the position of executive vice president of global merchandising for Staples Inc.

"There is no better person to lead eBags than Mike Edwards," said Jon Nordmark, co-founder and chairman of the Board of eBags, Inc., which also owns Handbags.com. "Mike is a proven leader with outstanding merchandising, marketing and omnichannel skills. He's a visionary, adept at working in companies from $7 million to $22 billion in revenues. Mike understands demands faced by all types of retailers: from brick-n-mortars to B2Bs to retailers selling digital goods, from operations to digital marketing. His vision for how technology and bag-oriented products are used and experienced around the world will advance eBags as the company enters its next chapter of product innovation and expansion."

Until recently, Edwards served as the EVP for Staples, responsible for the merchandising strategy and new business development, assortment planning, as well as vendor programs for the retail, online, and contract sales divisions. Over three years, Edwards helped expand Staples assortment from 33,000 to 1.5 million SKUs and formed partnerships with world-class brands like Apple and Bose. He also managed the innovation teams supporting divisions in 26 countries and the global private label group which generated over $5 billion in sales.

"I could not be more enthusiastic about joining the eBags team. The potential to build on the strong platform of ecommerce and mobility will fuel global growth," said Edwards. "I am excited to lead the talented eBags' associates during the next stage of success for the company. In addition, I am passionate about the bag category and travel space, and look forward to eBags continuing to provide the best customer experience in the industry."

Prior to Staples, Edwards joined Borders in September 2009 as EVP, CMO and was appointed president and CEO of Borders, Inc. and president, Borders Group, Inc. in 2010 through 2011. For his ability to handle a challenging restructuring, Mike received accolades from his team and vendors for his leadership and integrity.