Claire's Stores names Michael Schwindle as new CFO

By

Robin Driver

Published
Mar 11, 2020

Teen-focused jewelry and accessories retailer Claire’s Stores, Inc. has announced the appointment of Payless ShoeSource alum Michael Schwindle as executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective March 2, 2020.

 
Schwindle brings 30 years of experience to his new role, in which he will oversee the Hoffman Estates, Illinois-based company’s financial operations.
 
He joins Claire’s from regional hardware retailer Fleet Farm, where he has served as CFO for the last two years, leading finance, human resources and IT, and supporting the company through its transformation phase.

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Prior to this, Schwindle was CFO at Payless ShoeSource from 2015 to 2017, having previously held the same role at food and gift company Harry & David and musical instrument retailer Musicians Friend.
 
The executive has a BA and an MBA from Wright State University and began his career at Deloitte & Touche LLP, going on to serve in operational and financial roles at Home Depot, Limited Brands and The Longaberger Company.
 
“I am extremely pleased to have Michael joining Claire's as our next CFO,” said Claire’s Stores CEO Ryan Vero in a release. “Michael's proven track record of driving business efficiency and profit growth, coupled with his passion for operational excellence and building world class teams make him an ideal fit for our Company.”
 
Vero himself stepped into his current role in July of last year, in the midst of the retailer’s reorganisation following its exit from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October 2018.