After serving as interim chief executive officer since November, Boot Barn Holdings has named John Hazen as its permanent CEO.
Hazen, who stepped in after Jim Conroy announced plans to step down from the CEO role on Nov. 22, joined Boot Barn in 2018 as chief digital officer. Prior to joining the company, Hazen served as senior vice president of commerce and subscriptions of Ring from 2017 to 2018 and SVP of direct-to-consumer of True Religion from 2014 to 2017. His extensive career also includes leadership positions at Kellwood, Nike, and Fox Racing.
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Peter Starrett, executive chairman of Boot Barn, said in a statement that the board made a “unanimous” decision to elect Hazen to the top job after a “comprehensive search” for the “right leader” to drive Boot Barn forward.
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“We believe that his deep industry knowledge, proven track record in digital transformation, and clear vision for the future make him exceptionally qualified for this role,” Starrett said. “John has already demonstrated strong leadership during his tenure as Interim CEO, and we are confident in his ability to execute our strategic plans and deliver long-term growth.”
“I am honored and excited to lead Boot Barn as we continue to build on our strong foundation and focus on consistent, long-term growth,” Hazen added. “Having worked closely with our talented team during the last seven years, and more recently as interim CEO, I am more confident than ever in our strategic direction and our ability to deliver exceptional value to our customers and stockholders. We will remain focused on our four strategic growth initiatives and delivering the selection and shopping experience our customers count on.”
In January, the Irvine, Calif.-based footwear company reported that its net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 increased 6.9 percent to $608.2 million, up from $520.4 million in the prior-year period. Net income in the period was $75.1 million, or $2.43 per diluted share, compared to $55.6 million, or $1.81 per diluted share, in the prior-year period.
Hazen noted at the time, that sales in Q3 were led by the combined ladies’ western boots and apparel businesses, which comped positive low double digits. This was followed by the combined men’s western boots and apparel business, which comped positive high single digits.