Tilly’s taps Nordstrom exec to oversee merchandising

A specialty retailer is naming a 25-year Nordstrom veteran as chief merchandising officer.

Tricia D. Smith is now serving as executive VP and chief merchandising officer of Tilly’s Inc. Smith will oversee all aspects of the company’s merchandising operations, including buying, sourcing, and product development, along with coordinating consistency in merchandising experiences both in-store and online.

Prior to joining Tilly’s, Smith served as executive VP, general merchandise manager of women’s, young contemporary, designer, and specialized apparel at Nordstrom Inc. since 2016. During her 25-year tenure at Nordstrom, Smith served in a variety of significant merchandise management roles for several of Nordstrom’s departments.

“I am excited to have someone of Tricia’s extensive experience joining our company,” said Ed Thomas, president and CEO of Tilly’s. “Her tremendous track record of growth and strategic leadership will bring great value to Tilly’s as we continue to improve our business.”

In other C-level appointment news at Tilly’s, Michael L. Henry has been promoted to the title of executive VP, CFO of the company.

Tillys is a specialty retailer of casual apparel, footwear and accessories for young men, young women, boys and girls. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., the company currently operates 231 total stores, including two RSQ pop-up stores, across 33 states, and an e-commerce site.