Levi Strauss announces senior leadership changes

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Oct 28, 2020

Levi Strauss & Co. announced on Tuesday a series of leadership changes, which is expected to allow the brand to increase its focus on direct-to-consumer (DTC) and prioritize the digitization of its business. 

Effective November 30, the company is promoting its chief marketing officer, Jen Sey, to brand president. In this new position, Sey will lead the Levi’s brand organization, which will bring together marketing, design, merchandising and brand experience all in one place. 

Next, Liz O’Neill will become chief operations officer. She will oversee the ongoing rollout of the company’s F.L.X. technology, while driving digitization, sustainability and agility in its global supply chain.

Likewise, Seth Ellison, previously executive vice president and president, Europe, is being promoted to chief commercial officer (CCO), where he will lead the company’s global commercial operations. 

Finally, to accelerate the company’s digital transformation, Marc Rosen, executive vice president and president, Americas, is taking on an additional role where he will lead a new Digital Enterprise Office. 

“By doubling down on the company’s key growth drivers — the continued strengthening of our greatest asset, the Levi’s brand; leading with DTC and diversifying our business; and fully embracing digital to transform our operations and processes — we are capitalizing on the opportunities created by the global pandemic, which has accelerated changes in consumer behavior and the competitive landscape,” said Chip Bergh, president and chief executive officer of Levi Strauss & Co.

“With an industry-leading management team, Levi Strauss & Co. is fortunate to have a group of leaders who have been driving long-term value and are well-positioned to drive this focus for the next chapter of our growth.”

Earlier this month, the iconic denim brand announced a surprise profit thanks to a surge in online sales. The company has also benefited from important wholesale partnerships and the success of new product categories. Still, in the third quarter ended August 23, net revenue declined about 27 percent to $1.06 billion. 

The company is currently putting a heavy focus on its e-commerce business.