Crate and Barrel Names Interim CEO, Starts Search

August 5, 2014  by in Executive Changes, Furniture Retailing, Industry   

Adrian Mitchell, the retailer's chief operating officer and CFO, has assumed the interim leadership of the company.

The CEO position will concentrate on supporting the Crate and Barrel's evolving business strategy and include a deepened focus on the customer experience and growth in the digital space.

“For more than 50 years, Crate and Barrel has been a trusted home furnishings brand for customers around the globe," said  Hans-Otto Schrader, CEO of Otto Group, the Crate and Barrel parent company, and chairman of the Crate and Barrel board of directors. "We remain focused on Crate and Barrel’s core strengths of great design, value and customer service, and are confident in the executive team’s ability to lead us into the future.”

Mitchell joined Crate and Barrel as CFO in 2010, and was promoted to COO in February. During his tenure, Mitchell’s responsibilities have expanded to include global supply chain operations, real estate, international retail and eCommerce operations. Mitchell came to Crate and Barrel from Target Corp., where he served as director of strategy and interactive design, overseeing the brand’s eCommerce customer experience and store integration. He also held the post of director of innovation and productivity for Target, leading efforts to improve store experience. 

“With a long history of careful management and growth, Crate and Barrel is well positioned for international and domestic expansion," Mitchell said. "Our executive team also looks forward to exploring new opportunities for innovation and improving our customer experience, especially in the digital space.”