Limited Brands names new execs

COLUMBUS, Ohio Limited Brands announced today that Diane Neal, president and coo for Bath and Body Works, has been promoted to ceo. Neal has served as coo since joining Bath and Body Works in November 2006. Prior to joining Bath and Body Works, she served as president of the outlet division for Gap Inc., following her role as senior vp, merchandising. She also spent many years in a variety of roles with increasing leadership at the Target Corp., including areas of responsibility in merchandising, planning and sourcing for Target. Neal also held the position of president of Mervyn's Stores from 2001 to 2004.

Neil Fiske, who joined Bath and Body Works in 2003, is leaving to become ceo of Eddie Bauer.

Also, the company is announcing the appointment of Bill May as coo for Victoria's Secret Stores. Most recently, May served as evp and coo at Payless ShoeSource. He has also served as evp and coo of Tween Brands and has held various senior-level executive positions at Gap Inc.