J.C. Penney names new transformation and strategy chief

By

Benjamin Fitzgerald

Published
Feb 6, 2023

J.C. Penney has announced the appointment of Keith Melker as its new chief transformation and strategy officer, effective February 1, 2023. Melker will be responsible for transformation, strategy and partnerships at the iconic U.S. retailer.

Melker will oversee the New York-based company's transformation office, ensuring that the company’s transformation initiatives are executed effectively, as the retailer focuses on its reinvention, optimizing corporate processes and initiates strategic partnerships.

Key areas of focus include driving profitable consumer traffic, enhancing inventory management, further advancing digital growth, exploring strategic partnerships and evolving the value delivery model, among others, according to a press release.

Melker most recently served as chief executive officer for Wehner Multifamily, a Texas-based property management company. Prior to that, he held the position of chief strategy officer for Kimberly-Clark Corporation.

He also has over a decade of experience supporting leading companies during his time at Boston Consulting Group where he was a managing director and partner.

“As we continue our transformation journey into 2023, we’re laser-focused on achieving our goals to better serve our customers as they turn to J.C. Penney for style and value,” said Marc Rosen, chief executive officer of J.C. Penney.

Keith’s extensive experience in transformation work and strategic leadership abilities will make him a valued advisor in this next step for our organization.”