Sur La Table CEO names former Bath & Body Works chief as new CEO

Seattle -- Kitchenware retailer Sur La Table has appointed industry veteran Diane Neal as its new CEO. She succeeds Jack Schwefel, who has left the company to pursue other opportunities after serving as Sur La Table’s CEO since 2007.



Neal served as CEO and president of Bath & Body Works from 2007 to 2011. She currently serves on the boards of several retail companies, including Abercrombie & Fitch Co. and Fossil Group Inc. Neal also held leadership positions at Gap and Target.



The change in leadership comes as the privately-held company deals with increased online competition and looks to expand its brand on the East Coast.



“I am truly excited to be taking on this role and joining a market-leading company in Sur La Table,” said Neal. “I look forward to building on the company’s unique product offering and exceptional customer service to offer consumers the best kitchenware shopping experience, whether it’s in-store or online.”



Sur La Table operates some 117 stores nationwide.