Former Coach exec named CEO of REI

Seattle -- Recreational Equipment (REI) named Jerry Stritzke as the company's president and CEO, effective Oct. 1, following an extensive national search. Stritzke most recently served as president and COO for Coach, which announced his resignation, effective Sept. 2.



At REI, Stritzke replaces former president and CEO, Sally Jewell, who left the company in April when she was confirmed as the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior. In addition to serving as the company's CEO, he also will serve as a member of the co-op's board of directors.



Prior to joining Coach, Stritzke had an eight-year career with Limited Brands, Inc.



“REI's board set high standards in pursuing the company's next CEO," said Board Chair John Hamlin. "Jerry brings to REI an outstanding record of success in all aspects of specialty retail, particularly brand building, operations, and customer insights. He possesses strategic vision, he knows how to foster a high-performing executive team, and he has proven skills in navigating the disruptive forces that have become the norm in today's business world."