Long-time JCPenney marketing chief retires

PLANO, Texas — JCPenney said Tuesday that its veteran marketing chief Mike Boylson has retired from the company. His successor will be selected by newly minted CEO Ron Johnson in what will be the former Apple executive’s first senior-level appointment at JCPenney.

Boylson was with the department store chain for more than three decades, the last eight years as chief marketing officer. He said in June he would retire from the company on July 1, according to a JCPenney spokeswoman.

Boylson was instrumental in the retailer’s launches of such brands as Liz Claiborne, MNG by Mango and American Living by Polo Ralph Lauren Corp.

In the interim, while Johnson works to fill the position, former SVP marketing planning and promotions Bill Gentner will serve in the position.