Watts jumping to QVC from Wal-Mart

WEST CHESTER, Pa. Former Wal-Mart merchandising evp, Claire Watts is joining QVC on Jan. 7, 2008, and will assume the role of president of U.S. Commerce, effective May 1, 2008, QVC announced today.

Watts was with Wal-Mart for the past ten years, serving in a variety of positions, including most recently as evp of merchandising. She has also held executive positions at The Limited, Lands' End and the May Company.

In her new position as president of U.S. Commerce, Watts will oversee planning, programming, merchandising, broadcasting, TV sales, and QVC.com for the U.S. operation.

"Claire brings a wealth of experience from multiple sectors of retailing and has an in-depth understanding of consumers," said QVC's president and ceo, Mike George, to whom Watts will report. "Her ability to lead in an open, honest, values-based environment, combined with her innovation and creativity, will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the QVC business."