News

Sears taps seasoned leader to spearhead merchandising

New VP is no stranger to Sears given 28 years of leadership time.

September 15, 2015

Michael McCarthy, a Sears Holding company veteran, is the new VP of merchandising and inventory for Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores.

McCarthy, who will take on his new leadership role as of Sept. 21, will be responsible for merchandising, assorting and inventory, including: product selection and assortment planning strategy, inventory management and productivity, product and visual merchandising, product marketing and awareness strategies, promotional design, as well as vendor relationships and support, according to an announcement.

Of his 33 years of retail experience, McCarthy spent 28 years with Sears Holdings Corp, which was separated from the Hometown and Outlet Stores enterprise in 2012.

"Mike is a seasoned retail professional with comprehensive experience across multiple retail disciplines at a senior executive level and he has a track record of success," said Will Powell, CEO and President of Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores, in the announcement. "He has an extensive history with Sears Holdings Corporation, serving in many different capacities over nearly three decades, including executive-level positions in several functional areas. This includes direct experience working in our business formats, and multiple merchandising, assorting and inventory planning assignments. Not only does he understand our business model, he knows how to work effectively with dealers and franchisees."

McCarthy joined Sears Holdings in 1982, culminating in his role as the senior VP and general manager of Sears Full-Line Stores, a position he held from 2007 through 2011. Prior he was the senior VP of full-line store retail operations and specialty retail formats, including the Sears Hometown Stores, Sears Appliance & Hardware Stores, Sears Auto Centers and Sears Outlet Stores. Other positions held during his time at Sears Holdings include: VP, merchandising, inventory and marketing for the Hometown Stores and director, merchandising planning and placement for Sears Home Appliances.

McCarthy left Sears Holdings to pursue an opportunity with Macy's as the executive VP, directing the company's north region. In 2014, he joined Pep Boys' corporate team as the VP of store operations and administration.

"I'm excited to be joining Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores," said McCarthy. "The opportunity leverages my past experience and I look forward to being part of the executive team charged with the company's transformation."