What: Macy's names Barbie Cameron as chief stores officer to lead implementation of its Bold New Chapter strategy across remaining 350 locations following planned closures.

Why it is important: The role is crucial for implementing Macy's store modernisation strategy while managing the delicate balance of store closures and investment in remaining locations.

Macy's has promoted Barbie Cameron to chief stores officer, effective February 16, following her role as senior vice president and regional director of stores for the Eastern region. Cameron, who has been serving as interim chief stores officer since August, will report to Adrian Mitchell, chief operating officer and CFO. Her appointment comes as Macy's executes plans to close approximately 150 locations through 2026, including 66 stores this year, while investing in 350 "go-forward" locations. The transformation includes enhanced staffing in key areas like women's fitting rooms and checkout, improved visual merchandising, and brand optimisation. Early results show improved sales and customer satisfaction scores in the approximately 50 stores where investments have been made. Cameron's 37-year career at Macy's, progressing from sales manager through various leadership positions, brings valuable experience to this critical transformation phase.

IADS Notes: Barbie Cameron's promotion to chief stores officer comes at a pivotal moment in Macy's transformation journey. Her appointment aligns with the company's "Bold New Chapter" initiative launched in November 2024, which focuses on store optimisation, luxury business expansion, and operational modernisation. The timing is particularly significant given January 2025's confirmation of 66 store closures alongside investment in 350 go-forward locations, where the First 50 pilot stores have already demonstrated three consecutive quarters of sales growth. Cameron's 37-year career progression from sales manager to senior leadership positions positions her uniquely to execute this complex transformation, balancing store closures with the modernisation of remaining locations.

Macy’s names company veteran as chief stores officer