Daily News
From Home Furnishing Business
Crate & Barrel Taps Janet Hayes as New CEO
July 8,
2020 by Laurie Northington in Business Strategy, Industry 
Home furnishings retailer Crate & Barrel has named Janet Hayes as its new CEO, effective Aug. 1.
A seasoned executive with over 25 years of retail experience, Hayes brings an outstanding track record of developing and repositioning brands with deep expertise in the home category. Between 2013 and 2019 she was president of the Williams-Sonoma brand where she led the successful turnaround of the San Francisco-based business.
Known for leading high-performing teams with an inspiring, inclusive style, Hayes’ business vision, commitment to product leadership, strong operational strategies and digital fluency inspired modern brand experiences for customers with exceptional business outcomes.
"I am delighted to lead Crate & Barrel Holdings and its family of brands at this pivotal time in retail and work alongside an immensely talented team building on over 55 years of experience," says Hayes. "My passion for great brands with meaningful heritage makes this an extraordinary opportunity. I am equally humbled and energized to lead the company into a new phase of transformation and growth."
Prior to William Sonoma, Hayes was president of Pottery Barn Kids and Teen. Her career also includes positions at benchmark companies such as Nike, GAP and Macy's. Her international experience extends to the Middle East, Korea and Australia and more recently Europe through partnerships with Fortnum&Mason, Thomas Browne and Harrods.
"I am very pleased to welcome Janet as our new CEO of Crate & Barrel Holdings," says Sergio Bucher, member of the executive board of the Otto Group and chairman of the supervisory board of Crate and Barrel. "We are lucky to add her incredible skill set to the Crate and Barrel team. Janet not only comes with a great understanding of the U.S. customer in the home category with deep product knowledge and a passion for the shopping experience, but she is also a thoughtful and inspiring leader. She will help us strengthen the position of Crate and Barrel as a design-led, lifestyle company in the market."