KMART PROMOTES LORNA NAGLER
Byline: Arnold J. Karr
NEW YORK — In a move that consolidates all apparel merchandising under a single executive, Lorna Nagler has been promoted to senior vice president and general merchandise manager of apparel at Kmart Corp.
Nagler has been vice president and gmm of men’s wear and children’s since 1999. She joined Kmart as divisional vice president of the children’s division in 1996.
With the promotion at the Troy, Mich.-based discount chain, Nagler adds responsibility for women’s wear as well as accessories, hosiery, lingerie and jewelry. These areas had been supervised by Lucinda (Cindy) Sapienza who, as reported, left Kmart on Jan. 15.
Nagler will continue to report to Cecil Kearse, executive vice president of merchandising at Kmart. In a statement, Kearse said that Nagler’s “ability to develop unique, value-oriented quality apparel for our Kmart customer will strengthen our assortments. She has a proven track record in the men’s wear and children’s departments, and we are confident that she will continue to make new inroads for Kmart’s fashion business.”
Prior to joining Kmart five years ago, Nagler held women’s merchandising posts with Wards and Lane Bryant. She also has been with Kids ‘R’ Us, Main Street, Lytton’s and Goldblatt’s.
Kmart said that, under Nagler, the apparel team will “concentrate on brand management and building a focused assortment; better utilize advertising opportunities; nurture relations with vendor brand partners; optimize floor space; and work closely with the trend department to create signature fashion collections across all departments.”
In addition to Nagler’s appointment, Kmart Monday announced that three officials had been promoted to senior vice president and gmm from their posts as vice president and gmm. They are: Steve Ryman, home, seasonal, garden and Martha Stewart Everyday; Tony Montini, drug store; and Mike Frank, food and consumables.
Ryman, Montini and John Owen, earlier named senior vice president and gmm of hardlines, report to Kearse. Frank reports to Mark Schwartz, executive vice president of store operations.
In a development outside of merchandising, Kmart said Leo Anguiano had joined the company in the new post of vice president of asset protection, reporting to Andy Giancamilli, president and chief operating officer. Anguiano was previously vice president of loss prevention, risk management and audit at Michaels Stores.