Former Gymboree CEO to head up Banana Republic

It’s a homecoming of sorts for Mark Breitbard.



Gap Inc. on Tuesday named Breitbard as president and CEO of its struggling Banana Republic division.



Breitbard served as CEO at The Gymboree Corporation from 2013 until he stepped down in early 2017. From 2010 to 2013, he held leadership positions across Gap North America, where he was instrumental in delivering the product-led resurgence of Gap’s North America business.



Breitbard also served as chief merchandising and creative officer of Old Navy from 2009 to early 2010. Previously, he served in leadership roles at Levi Strauss & Co. and Abercrombie & Fitch.



Breitbard will report to Gap president and chief executive officer Art Peck, and will serve on the company’s senior leadership team. Peck will continue to directly oversee Banana Republic until Breitbard joins the company in early May.



“Mark brings significant retail leadership experience to Gap Inc., along with deep knowledge of the company and our customer,” said Peck. “We know what Banana Republic is capable of, and Mark’s ability to drive transformation and innovation will help revitalize the brand and position it to achieve its long-term potential.”



Breitbard will replace Andi Owen who left the company last month. His appointment comes as Gap is trying to turnaround Banana Republic, which has been plagued by sales declines.