Petco makes some big executive moves

Petco is making several changes to its leadership team as the retailer focuses on key omnichannel initiatives.

The pet specialty retailer announced that CEO Jim Myers will also be taking on the role of chairman, Brad Weston has been named president, Steve Lossing has been named senior vice president of operations, and Rebecca Frechette has been named senior vice president in charge of merchandising.

Speaking of Weston's appointment, Myers said: "Brad has made outstanding contributions to our company, demonstrating leadership across our business and building a world-class merchandising, marketing and store design team. His leadership and vision will be an asset to Petco as we continue to evolve and grow."

Weston spoke about Petco's omnichannel evolution when the retailer launched a partnership with Instacart called PetcoNow in June. The service has been reportedly a big hit with consumers.

“In today’s on-demand retail economy, customers expect to have the world at their fingertips,” said Westo. “PetcoNow represents an evolution in the way we’re able to provide quality products and customer service to pet parents. Combining our 50-year heritage, expertise and retail footprint with strategic partnerships ensures we stay at the forefront of innovation in today’s changing marketplace.”

Previously, Weston served as EVP, CMO and President, Unleashed by Petco. A seasoned retail veteran, Weston joined Petco in October 2011 as EVP, Chief Merchant, and has led the evolution of the Unleashed by Petco brand and format. Prior to joining Petco, Weston held various leadership positions in merchandising for other retailers, including Dick's Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy and May Department Stores.

Steve Lossing will succeed Tom Farello, who is retiring in 2016 after nine years as Senior Vice President, Operations. In his role, Farello has led operational strategy and execution for more than 1,400 stores across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, including the company's Animal Care and Pet Services teams. Farello will work closely with his successor into next year on several projects before retiring. Previously, Lossing served as Senior Vice President, Merchandising and was responsible for Petco's product assortment and merchandising strategy. Prior to joining Petco, he held a number of leadership positions for J.C. Penney and other retailers.

"On behalf of the entire company, I want to thank Tom for his many contributions, especially those focused on creating a great customer experience," said Myers. "We've come a long way under Tom's leadership, and he will continue to play a key role in our future success."

Rebecca Frechette has been named Senior Vice President, Merchandising, with responsibility for all merchandising activities across Petco. Frechette will report to Brad Weston. Previously, she served as Senior Vice President, Private Brand. Prior to joining Petco, Frechette served as Senior Vice President, Merchandising for 7-Eleven.

"As Petco continues to evolve, these important leadership changes strengthen our ability to achieve our goals and move forward on key strategic initiatives, while also serving to recognize the talent and accomplishments of key leaders in our organization," said Myers. "I'm confident the expertise of our leadership team will further enable Petco to become the most complete retailer in the pet industry."

Petco operates more than 1,400 locations across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico.