The Vitamin Shoppe names new HR chief
A specialty health and wellness retailer has added veteran leadership to its C-suite.
The Vitamin Shoppe has announced the appointment of Kate Vukelich as executive VP and chief people officer. In this role, Vukelich will oversee all aspects of human resources strategy and operations, including talent acquisition and development, organizational culture, and associate engagement across The Vitamin Shoppe stores, distribution centers, and corporate support center.
Vukelich brings more than two decades of experience to the retailer. She most recently served as chief revenue and chief people officer at apparel retailer Everlane until 2024. During her four-year tenure at the company, Vukelich grew her portfolio of responsibilities from human resources to encompass stores, customer experience, international markets, e-commerce and marketing.
"Kate is an exceptional leader who brings a rare combination of deep HR expertise and proven success in retail operations and P&L management," said The Vitamin Shoppe CEO Sharon Leite, who returned to the role earlier this year after the company was acquired by private equity. "As The Vitamin Shoppe embarks on an impactful new phase of growth and transformation, Kate will be a true strategic partner in shaping a people-first culture that fuels innovation, engagement, and performance. I'm excited to welcome her to our executive leadership team as we advance our strategy to elevate the brand and create the leading destination for health and wellness."
Prior to Everlane, Vukelich spent 12 years at Walmart in a range of senior leadership roles of increasing responsibility, including VP of e-commerce supply chain people, head of strategy and human resources for Walmart Neighborhood Markets, and regional general manager for 150 Walmart stores on the West Coast. She also served internationally as chief of staff and HR integration executive at Massmart, Walmart's South African subsidiary.
[READ MORE: The Vitamin Shoppe names its first chief strategy officer]
"I'm thrilled to join The Vitamin Shoppe at such a pivotal time in the brand's evolution," said Vukelich. "This is a purpose-driven organization powered by passionate teams and a bold vision for the future. As we implement a new transformation and growth plan, I'm eager to help unlock the incredible potential of our people, foster a world-class workplace culture, and ensure every Health Enthusiast associate is valued, empowered, and positioned for success."
In the U.S., The Vitamin Shoppe operates over 640 retail stores under The Vitamin Shoppe and Super Supplements banners. Globally, The Vitamin Shoppe serves customers in select Asia, South America, and Central America markets through local omnichannel partners.
