Kirk Palmer Associates Assists Destination XL Group, with CMO Search
September 27, 2022 – Retailers are facing major shifts in their businesses that call for “unprecedented responses” by CEOs who can effectively lead through change, intuitively and analytically understand the evolving consumer, and respond to ambiguity, according to search consultants. Developed markets, excess retail capacity, rising prices, the shift to omni-channel retail and the unpredictable pace of change in consumer shopping habits all affect the type of leader that retailers need. Retail-focused executive search firm Kirk Palmer Associates recently helped place James Reath as the new chief marketing officer of Destination XL Group Inc., an omni-channel specialty retailer of men’s big and tall clothing and shoes. Mr. Reath will replace Ujjwal Dhoot, the company’s current chief marketing officer, who has informed the company that he will be leaving effective Oct. 11. The search was led by Dana Levine.
“We are extremely pleased that Jim has joined DXL Big + Tall, as our new chief marketing officer,” said Harvey Kanter, president and CEO. “Jim’s appointment underscores our ongoing transformation and commitment to building out the organization’s continued focus on customer engagement through data-driven personalization, loyalty, and digital marketing.”
Mr. Reath brings over 20 years of marketing leadership experience with a particular focus on omni-retail, digital marketing, brand building, and consumer insights. Prior to joining DXL, Mr. Reath served as SVP of marketing at Bed Bath & Beyond, and SVP of marketing at Macy’s Inc. Prior to that, he was EVP, head of retail at BBDO (New York); a partner at McKinney; and chief marketing officer at Young & Rubicam. He has also held senior agency leadership roles focusing on retail clients.
At DXL Mr. Reath will be responsible for the marketing organization, including the overall marketing strategy, brand, consumer, creative, media, CRM, and digital commerce. Mr. Reath has a management certificate from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, a bachelor’s degree from Western University of London, Ontario, Canada and he serves on the board of directors of the American Red Cross.
“I’m excited to make DXL known to a greater number of big and tall men and engage our customers in personalized ways as we look to grow the business across all channels, and firmly establish DXL Big + Tall as the one-stop-solution for men’s big and tall apparel and footwear,” said Mr. Reath.
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Destination XL Group is headquartered in Canton, MA, and its common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “DXLG.” The company operates both retail stores and ecommerce businesses through its five trade names: DXL, Rochester Clothing, Casual Male XL, Shoes XL, and Living XL.
Retail-Focused Recruiters
Since its founding in 1987, Kirk Palmer Associates has grown globally, helping retailers hire CEOs, presidents, and front-of-house executives spanning a wide array of marketing, merchandising, stores, sales, E-commerce, and digital leadership roles. Kirk Palmer Associates is made up of retail and fashion industry veterans. The firm’s partners have placed more than 1,000 CEOs, presidents, vice presidents, and other senior executives at over 200 retail and wholesale companies across all channels, sectors, and functional areas.
Retail-Focused Recruiters
Kirk Palmer Associates recently assisted in the recruitment of John Aylward as chief marketing officer of JCPenney. Partner Lindsay Stevens led the assignment. “The 120-year-old JCPenney brand is iconic. We must protect what the brand represents while evolving how it expresses who we are today,” said Marc Rosen, chief executive officer. “John will help fulfill our potential at this pivotal moment when JCPenney stands alone as a one-stop retailer. Additionally, John’s passion for purpose-driven work will be an important asset as we continue to provide offerings that promote inclusivity and celebrate the diversity of our customers.”
Ms. Levine is a partner specializing in fashion, luxury and lifestyle brands. She joined Kirk Palmer Associates in 2014 after an extensive career in merchandising, planning, digital, and stores at GAP, Ralph Lauren, and Loro Piana. Ms. Levine has partnered with clients ranging from LVMH to PetSmart and has placed CEO, C-level and senior management executives.
Kirk Palmer Associates recently assisted in the recruitment of John Aylward as chief marketing officer of JCPenney. Partner Lindsay Stevens led the assignment. “The 120-year-old JCPenney brand is iconic. We must protect what the brand represents while evolving how it expresses who we are today,” said Marc Rosen, chief executive officer. “John will help fulfill our potential at this pivotal moment when JCPenney stands alone as a one-stop retailer. Additionally, John’s passion for purpose-driven work will be an important asset as we continue to provide offerings that promote inclusivity and celebrate the diversity of our customers.”
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Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Managing Editor; and Stephen Sawicki, Managing Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media