NEW YORK — Liz Claiborne Inc. is making some executive changes in its better and moderate department store group.
The group includes the Liz Claiborne, Sigrid Olsen, City Unltd., Emma James, Intuitions, J.H. Collectibles and Tapemeasure brands, as well as the newly acquired Mac & Jac, Kenzie and Kenziegirl businesses.
Aru Kulkarni has been named president and chief sales officer, responsible for business-related matters on all brands in the group. Kulkarni was formerly president of department store moderate brands.
Denise Johnston, formerly president of Liz Claiborne apparel, has been given the role of president and chief merchandising officer for the group, and will oversee all design and merchandising activities for the brands.
Becky Blair, currently president of Sigrid Olsen, will continue to oversee the product and merchandising of that brand, as well as the integration of Mac & Jac, Kenzie and Kenziegirl.
Earlier this month, Liz Claiborne revealed plans to streamline its operations and, as a result, eliminate 500 positions within the group and reevaluate about 20 retail locations.
Paul Charron, chairman and chief executive officer of the $4.6 billion firm, said the moves will help the company be more efficient in managing its current portfolio and allow for more growth opportunities.
“We live in a world that is constantly changing, so decisions that were made in the past are not necessarily ensuring our future,” Charron said. “I realized that we are not as responsive as we can be, so these changes are a necessity in order for us to align the business with our customers’ needs.”