HUDSON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, the leading fabric and craft specialty retailer, has appointed Bryan Pugh as executive vice president, stores and store operations — a newly created role. Pugh will lead financial, operational and cultural leadership of Jo-Ann Stores and will report directly to president and chief executive officer, Jill Soltau.
“Bryan is a diverse and experienced leader, and I’m thrilled to add him to our leadership team,” said Jill Soltau, president and chief executive officer, Jo-Ann Stores. “Bryan’s broad experience in operations, merchandising and marketing in global, highly competitive and strategic retailers provides a strong and diverse base of knowledge equipping him to lead and support our field and operations teams, and represent our customer every day.”
Pugh joins Jo-Ann from Fred’s Pharmacy & Super Dollar where he held the role of executive vice president, chief merchandising and marketing officer. His experience also includes senior vice president, chief merchandising officer at Walgreen Co. in addition to several roles of increasing responsibility at Tesco, with his last position as executive vice president, operations. Pugh began his career at Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club Division, where he held roles in operations, merchandising and marketing.
Jo-Ann also welcomes Jim Bellore who will serve as senior vice president, store operations and store support; he will report directly to Pugh. Bellore most recently served as senior vice president, store operations at The Bon-Ton Stores. Previously, he held store operations leadership positions at Saks Inc., Carson Pirie Scott, and Dayton Hudson Inc. after beginning his career at General Motors.
“We are pleased to welcome Jim to Jo-Ann in his new role,” said Soltau. “Jim has a proven track record in driving efficient operations, improving customer service and implementing new operational capabilities, simultaneously. Jim brings financial and strategic strength to support our store operations support teams and has an expert skill set in solving operational challenges and creating value.”
To learn more about Jo-Ann, visit joann.com.
About Jo-Ann Stores, LLC
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, the nation’s leading fabric and craft retailer with locations in 49 states, was founded in 1943 as a single retail store. Today, approximately 850 Jo-Ann stores across the country provide consumers all the fabrics, craft supplies and inspiration they need, conveniently under one roof. For additional information, visit Joann.com. To make creative connections, visit Joann.com/community.