McNaught, Lawrence move up in JCPenney ranks

PLANO, TEXAS —JCPenney recently announced the appointment of two new executives: Steven Lawrence was named evp and gmm of the men’s division and Clark McNaught was named senior vp and gmm of the children’s division.

Lawrence will be replacing Lana Cain-Krauter, a five-year veteran who has left the post to pursue a career as president of Beall’s Department Stores, where she will be responsible for merchandising, marketing, e-commerce, store operations and real estate functions.

As the new evp and gmm of the men’s division, Lawrence will oversee the strategic merchandise leadership and development of the business plans for the men’s apparel business, which includes private brands like Stafford, St. John’s Bay and The Original Arizona Jean Co., as well as exclusive brands like CONCEPTS by Claiborne and Solitude. Additionally, he will join the JCPenney executive board.

Lawrence’s career at JCPenney began in 2000 after he left his 10-year post at Foley’s where he held responsibilities in men’s apparel. Lawrence served as the senior vp and gmm of the children’s division at JCPenney since 2006. He also held the divisional vp and dmm titles for young men’s sportswear.

The role of senior vp and gmm of the children’s division has been filled by Clark McNaught, who will be responsible for strategic merchandise leadership and development of the children’s division that includes private brand Okie Dokie and the exclusive brand Messages from the Heart that sells infant apparel and gifts.

McNaught, a 25-year retail industry veteran, served as the divisional vp and dmm of men’s accessories, furnishings and clothing. He also held positions at Foley’s for five years prior to getting on board with JCPenney in 2001.

Both senior executives will report to Ken Hicks, president and chief merchandising officer, who said in a public statement, “JCPenney invests greatly in the career development of our associates at all levels of the company, and the bench strength of our merchandise organization is particularly strong. Steve and Clark are great contributors to JCPenney and have extended their reach across all merchandise divisions, exhibiting true leadership that has been instrumental in our growth.

“We are fortunate to be able to fill both positions internally, and are confident that they will continue to grow and develop their respective teams and businesses, solidifying JCPenney as the preferred choice for a retail career. We congratulate them on their promotions.”