Abercrombie taps seasoned HR exec to head up diversity efforts

Abercrombie & Fitch continues its efforts to polish its brand image.



The retailer announced that Jeanetta Darno has joined the company as VP of diversity and inclusion in a role that will include “enhancing the existing global diversity and inclusion best practices throughout the organization.”



Abercrombie has been hit with an array discrimination lawsuits in the past, including a federal class action brought by black, Latino and Asian employees and job applicants. The lawsuit was settled for $40 million in 2004 without the retailer admitting wrongdoing. Soon after, the chain initiated new programs to increase diversity. Since 2006, Abercrombie has received a top score of 100% on the HRC`s Corporate Equality Index, which recognizes the company as one of the "Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality."



Darno, who will work alongside the leadership team to guide the company`s overall diversity strategy, most recently served as senior VP of diversity and inclusion at Huntington National Bank. She spent seven years at Nationwide Insurance, and before that was with Cardinal Health and H.E.B. Grocery Co. Darno began her career at Wal-Mart Stores, as division manager of logistics recruiting.