Shopko names SVP marketing

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Shopko announced that Michael Cooper has joined the company as SVP marketing. In this role, Cooper will lead Shopko's branding strategy and marketing initiatives. He will report to Jill Soltau, president and chief merchandising officer.

"More than ever, marketing will be critical to our success as we work toward our vision to become America's hometown retailer through expansion of our Shopko Hometown retail concept," said Soltau. "Mike's expertise in marketing insights, research, and analytics will be essential to our effort to clearly communicate the Shopko Hometown difference to current and new customers. His combination of high-level marketing experience and tremendous cross-functional exposure, as well as his strong track record of success, make him a valuable addition to our team. His reputation as an executive who leads by example and without ego makes him a perfect fit for the culture at Shopko."

Cooper joins Shopko from Office Depot Inc. where he held several key marketing positions since 2006, most recently VP marketing. In that role, Cooper directed all aspects of the company's broader marketing strategy, including strategic planning and allocation of the company's marketing budget. Cooper consistently improved marketing effectiveness and strategically executed sales-driving initiatives using customer analytics, direct marketing and customer segmentation strategy, promotional offers, business intelligence and seasonal planning. Prior to joining Office Depot, Cooper spent seven years at Accenture where he established a reputation as a retail practice expert.

Cooper earned both a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Florida.