Home Depot names new CEO: Craig Menear to succeed Frank Blake

Atlanta -- The Home Depot on Thursday named Craig Menear, president of the chain's U.S. retail business, as CEO and president, effective Nov. 1. Menear succeeds chairman and CEO Frank Blake. Blake, who has held the top spot since 2007, will remain chairman.



Menear, who was also elected to the company's board of directors, effectively immediately, assumed his current position in February 2014. He is a 34-year retail veteran, and has been a key leader in the company's success, the retailer said.



In addition to his role as chief merchant, Menear has overseen the company's supply chain efforts, its rapidly growing online and private brand businesses and the company's marketing and global sourcing.



Prior to joining the company in 1997, Menear held various merchandising positions within the retail industry with companies such as Ikea, Builders Emporium, Grace Home Centers and Montgomery Ward, as well as operating an independent retail business. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University’s Eli Broad College of Business.



"Craig has taken on increasing leadership responsibility over the last several years and has excelled in all his roles," said Blake. "As a long-time Home Depot veteran, Craig lives our values and embodies our culture. He'll do an outstanding job leading our company in the years ahead."



Blake has been chairman and CEO of The Home Depot since 2007.



"On behalf of the board, I want to thank Frank for the job he has done over the last seven years," said Greg Brenneman, the board's lead director. "Among his many accomplishments, Frank has built a world-class leadership team. We are fortunate to have a leader of Craig's capabilities as our new CEO."