Sears Names Bufano to Head Softlines
Sears, Roebuck and Co. (NYSE: S) has named Kathryn Bufano to the new post of executive vice president, softlines, effective Jan. 1, 2002. Bufano, 49, most recently was president and chief merchandising officer for The Dress Barn, Inc., which operates a chain of value-priced specialty stores featuring women's career and casual fashions. In her new post, Bufano will report to Sears Chairman and CEO Alan J. Lacy. Her responsibilities will encompass merchandising strategies, including brand development and worldwide sourcing, for all men's, women's and children's apparel, footwear, home fashions and jewelry.
Prior to joining The Dress Barn in February 2001, Bufano was with Macy's East since 1995, serving as executive vice president and general merchandising manager, women's apparel from January 1996 - February 2001. Prior to that, Bufano had a successful 17-year career with Lord & Taylor, where she advanced from department manager and assistant buyer in 1977 to senior vice president and general merchandising manager for misses sportswear, special sizes and juniors, a post she held from 1989 - 1995. She began her retail career in 1976 with Charles A. Stevens, where she was a store manager.
"Kathy Bufano is a talented, results-oriented merchant. Her drive and apparel experience will be of tremendous help as we reposition and grow this important business," said Lacy.
Bufano, a Chicago native, holds a bachelor's of science degree in retailing from the University of Illinois-Urbana.
SOURCE: Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Contact: Peggy A. Palter of Sears, Roebuck and Co., +1-847-286-8361
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