Search is on for new Collective Brands CEO

TOPEKA, Kan. — Matthew Rubel is stepping down as CEO of Collective Brands, the company announced Thursday. Rubel will also give up his role as chairman of the board and as a director for the company. Michael Massey has been named the interim CEO and Scott Olivet has been named the company's non-executive chairman.

Collective Brands said that its compensation, nominating and governance committee, chaired by Mylle Mangum, has commenced a search for a permanent replacement for Rubel as CEO. Massey has informed the board that he does not wish to be a candidate for the position.

Massey has served in both corporate and operating roles during his 15 years at Collective Brands, including directing all aspects of the company's successful international expansion and operations. He continues to lead the international growth and overall business development in addition to serving as the company's SVP, general counsel and secretary.

Olivet, a member of the Collective Brands Board of Directors since 2006, is a 27-year veteran of the apparel, sports and retailing industry, having served as CEO of Oakley and in senior positions at Nike and The Gap Inc., participating in the growth and development of such iconic brands as Oakley, Converse, Cole Haan, Hurley, Bauer, Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy, the company reported.

"On behalf of the board, I want to thank Matt for his efforts over his six years at the helm of Collective Brands, and the strong and positive role he played in building our businesses," said Robert Wheeler, the company's lead director. "We look forward to building on that foundation and to a new chief executive officer leading the company toward the growth we see in our future."