Stage Stores appoints divisional chief

Houston Stage Stores said Monday that it has named Robert Bernard as president and COO of its South Hill Division, which is headquartered in South Hill, Va.

Bernard succeeds Richard Maloney, who was appointed chief merchandising officer of Stage Stores in February.

Bernard, 55, was previously senior VP general merchandise manager for Ross Stores. He has also held senior executive merchandising positions at several Macy’s divisions.

In his new position with Stage, Bernard will be responsible for all operations of the South Hill Division, including merchandising, planning and allocation, and store operations.

Stage Stores operates 777 stores in 39 states under the Bealls, Goody’s, Palais Royal, Peebles and Stage banners. The South Hill Division operates 300 of the company’s stores in 24 states.