Williams-Sonoma Streamlines Executive Team

July 29, 2014  by in Executive Changes, Furniture Retailing, Industry   

Pat Connolly, chief marketing officer, has been named chief strategy and business development officer. He will work with senior management to refine the company’s long-term strategy, including the development of new businesses, and the evaluation and execution of acquisitions and alliances that can provide significant growth.

“Pat has devoted the past 35 years to building the company’s multi-channel strategy and has been a driving force in our e-commerce growth," said Laura Alber, president and CEO. "In this role, Pat will combine his knowledge of the company, as well as the investment and venture communities to identify opportunities with significant potential that leverage our core competencies."

Connolly will oversee all corporate communications, including continuing to partner with CFO Julie Whalen on investor relations activities.

“I am excited to work with our outstanding leadership team to identify and capitalize on opportunities that can further enhance shareholder value,” Connolly said.

John Strain, chief information officer, has been named chief digital and technology officer. In his new role, Strain will assume additional responsibility for the company's digital and direct marketing efforts.

"John’s proven track record as CIO over the past eight years, and his almost two decades of experience in e-commerce technology will enable us to further integrate the rapid developments in digital technology into every aspect of our business,” Alber said.

Felix Carbullido has been named chief marketing officer and succeeds Connolly in the post. Carbullido reports to Strain.

"Felix brings a broad range of experiences across merchandising, e-commerce, and executive management to this position," Strain said. "Felix is a proven leader, under whom the Pottery Barn direct business has become one of the largest and most profitable in the U.S. In his new position, Felix will oversee the marketing across all our brands."

Dean Miller has been promoted to chief operating officer. Prior to the change, he was chief supply chain officer.

"Over the past 14 years, Dean has added significant value to the company in a number of positions of increasing responsibility," Alber said. "Dean led the company’s vertical integration efforts in sourcing, the development of its domestic upholstered manufacturing operations, its global logistics network, and the regionalization of the company’s U.S. distribution network. This promotion recognizes the significant contributions that Dean has made, and the importance of all aspects of our supply chain in providing the best quality service to our customers."