JCP Names Chief Merchant

September 23, 2015  by in Executive Changes, Furniture Retailing, Industry   

Tighe succeeds Elizabeth Sweney in the role. Sweney will serve as an advisor through the end of the year. At that time, she will retire.

Prior to his promotion, Tighe was senior vice president and senior general merchandise manager for men’s children’s, footwear, handbag and intimate apparel divisions. In his new position, Tighe will report to Marvin Ellison, CEO.

"John is an extraordinary merchant who, in his career, has curated some of the most high-performing brand portfolios in retail, including leading the growth of jcp.com,” Ellison said. “This broad experience gives him a keen understanding of the retail business, which will be essential to our success as we seize greater opportunities in omni-channel and increased private brand penetration, while positioning JC Penney as the best shopping destination for national brands and in-store attractions.” 

Tighe began his 24-year retail career at May Department Stores in a series of merchandising roles that spanned more than a decade at Filene's and Meier & Frank. JCPenney recruited Tighe as a buyer in 2002, and he was later promoted to divisional vice president, overseeing various apparel categories such as junior's sportswear, missy casual and special sizes before leading jcp.com in 2009 as senior vice president. In 2010, he was appointed senior vice president and general merchandise manager of the company's home division before transitioning to men's in 2012.