Toys ‘R’ Us moves interim CEO into role permanently; names new U.S. president

Wayne, N.J. -- Toys “R” Us announced that Antonio Urcelay has been named chief executive, effective immediately, after serving as the company’s interim CEO since May of this year. In other executive news, the retailer appointed a former Wal-Mart executive, Hank Mullany, as president of Toys “R” U.S., effective Nov. 5.



Urcelay, 61, who joined Toys “R” Us in 1996, had been president of the company's Europe business before being named interim CEO.



“Antonio's extensive knowledge of global markets makes him uniquely qualified to lead the organization as we expand rapidly in Asia and other parts of the world," Toys “R” Us said in a statement. “He has impressed all of us with his vision and leadership of the team throughout the search process.



Mullany, 55, was previously CEO of The ServiceMaster Co. Prior to ServiceMaster, he was executive VP of Walmart U.S. and president of Walmart's northern business,



“Hank brings a fresh perspective to the business, which, in combination with his operational strengths, will help build on the significant progress that has been made in advancing the U.S. business,” Toys “R” Us stated.