JCPenney names new apparel execs

DALLAS JCPenney has named Steven Lawrence as evp and general merchandise manager of the men's division and Clark McNaught as senior vp and general merchandise manager of the children's division.

In his new position, Steven Lawrence will overseee the men's apparel business, which includes the company's private brands Stafford, St. John's Bay and The Original Arizona Jean Company. Prior to his new role, Lawrence served as senior vp and general merchandise manager of JCPenney's children's division since 2006. Before that, he was divisional vice president and divisional merchandising manager for young men's sportswear. Lawrence joined JCPenney in 2000 from Foley's where he held positions of increasing responsibility in men's apparel for more than 10 years.

Clark McNaught, a 25-year veteran of the retail industry, is responsible for the strategic merchandise leadership and development of the children's division, including the leading children's private brand, Okie Dokie, and the recent launch of Messages from the Heart, a new line of infant apparel and gifts. He previously served as divisional vp and divisional merchandise manager of men's accessories, furnishings and clothing. Prior to joining JCPenney in 2001, McNaught held positions of increasing responsibility at Foley's for over five years.