Staples restructures international business leadership

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. Staples has announced executive appointments in its international business that will help drive the company's growth globally. John Barton has been appointed EVP international development and Anders Kristiansen has been appointed president of Staples China. Staples also announced the appointment of Noah Herschman as chief of merchandising for Staples China.

"John brings more than 20 years of experience with Staples to his new role and, through his deep understanding of our culture and operations, will help drive our success in international markets in the years ahead," said Mike Miles, Staples president and chief operating officer. "Anders brings tremendous international and industry experience to Staples and Noah brings a wealth of merchandising experience and online expertise. Both Anders and Noah will play important roles in growing our business in China."

After joining Staples in 1990, Barton has held roles of increasing responsibilities in real estate. He served most recently as EVP real estate, leading through his broad understanding of the company's operations combined with process and management discipline.

A 20-year veteran in the office supplies industry, Kristiansen formerly served as managing director of the Asia Pacific division at Lyreco. Previously, he served as Lyreco's managing director in Europe where he was responsible for all European subsidiaries. Prior to Lyreco, Kristiansen held various leadership positions at office supplies companies in Europe, namely GBC in Belgium, Herlitz and euro buro in Germany and Bogpa in Denmark. Kristiansen assumes leadership of Staples China from Pat Hickey, who will return to the US as his assignment in Asia concludes.

Herschman previously served at Amazon.com as director of merchandising for home and mobile electronics.