HBC promotes former Saks exec to run new PR department

Andrew Blecher, SVP of public relations at Hudson’s Bay Company

Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) is creating a new corporate communications and public relations division, and tapping a seasoned veteran to oversee it.



Andrew Blecher, SVP of public relations for HBC, has been promoted to SVP of corporate communications and public relations and will lead the function. The new department is being created as part of HBC’s larger focus on creating “centers of excellence” in key areas across the organization. It comprises corporate communications, banner public relations, global communications and internal communications.



Blecher began his career at Saks Fifth Avenue nearly 15 years ago. He left for four years to assume a leadership role at an outside PR agency, where HBC was his lead client. He was then hired by HBC in 2014, followings its acquisition of Saks.



“The creation of a communications center of excellence aligns with our efforts to ensure we are leveraging our talent across all of our banners and have clear and effective communications to support our long-term growth strategies,” said Jerry Storch, Hudson’s Bay Company CEO.



“Andrew’s track record with HBC makes him the ideal person to elevate the communications function within the organization and to develop and execute a strategic communications road map that reflects a truly global retail operation.”