MENOMONEE FALLS, Wis. – Kohl’s has hired a new chief merchandising officer who brings 25 years of experience from Walmart, Amazon and Target.
Ryan M. Waymire will join the company effective September 28. In his new role, he will oversee all merchandising strategy and functions, including buying, omnichannel merchandising, product design and development, allocation and planning, sourcing, and product portfolio strategy.
Most recently, he was SVP of fashion at Walmart U.S. Prior to that, he was GM, Brand President for BirchLane at Wayfair, SVP of Merchandising and Brand Partnerships at FabFitFun, and managed apparel and brand partnership at Amazon. Earlier in his career, he spent nearly a decade at Target in progressive buying, sourcing, and merchandising roles.
“As we intentionally build our business for the future, Ryan will take the next step with our merchandising teams in modernizing our overall product offering – with customers at the center of all decisions,” said Kohl’s CEO Michael Bender.
Waymire said he looks forward to helping shape Kohl’s merchandising strategy and delivering differentiated products and experiences to its shoppers.
“Throughout my career, I’ve focused on helping retailers and brands deliver what customers want and need while also inspiring them with stylish, high-quality products that bring joy to their lives,” he added.
He succeeds Nick Jones, who has been serving as Kohl’s chief merchant since 2023. Bender lauded Jones’ contributions to the company.
“Nick has played a key leadership role in driving our merchandise strategy, curating our national and private brand portfolio, and improving processes in the way we work,” said Bender.
