What: Nordstrom appoints Kelly Dilts as CFO, bringing three decades of retail financial leadership experience from Dollar General and other retailers.

Why it is important: The timing of this CFO transition, amid strong financial results and the company's privatization, signals Nordstrom's focus on maintaining momentum while strengthening its executive team.

Nordstrom has appointed Kelly Dilts as its new chief financial officer, effective August 29, succeeding Cathy Smith who is joining Starbucks. Dilts brings three decades of financial leadership experience, most recently serving as executive vice president and CFO at Dollar General since 2023. In her new role, she will oversee all core financial functions, real estate, store development, and strategic sourcing at the Seattle-based luxury department store chain. Prior to Dollar General, Dilts held CFO positions at Francesca's Holding Corporation and senior financial roles at Tailored Brands. The appointment comes as Nordstrom demonstrates strong performance, with Erik Nordstrom, co-CEO, emphasizing Dilts' proven track record in driving results at large-scale omnichannel retailers. The company recently reported fourth-quarter comparable sales growth of 4.7%, significantly exceeding market expectations.

IADS Notes: Kelly Dilts' appointment as Nordstrom CFO comes during a period of strong performance for the retailer. In March 2025, Nordstrom reported robust Q4 2024 results with 4.7% comparable sales growth and expanded margins, while January 2025 saw holiday sales gains of 5.8%. This transition follows a broader pattern of CFO changes in the retail sector, as evidenced by Macy's April 2025 appointment of Thomas Edwards from Capri Holdings. Dilts brings significant retail financial expertise from Dollar General, joining Nordstrom at a crucial moment as the company continues its transformation under private ownership with El Puerto de Liverpool.

Nordstrom names Kelly Dilts new CFO