Personnel Updates

• Beacon Roofing Supply Inc. (32) announced that Philip W. Knisely has been appointed Chairman of the board, succeeding Robert Buck, who has retired.

• Designer Brands Inc. (43) announced William L. Jordan has been named Chief Growth Officer.

• Francesca’s Holdings Corp. (37) has appointed Andrew Clarke as President, CEO.

• L & W Supply (26) announced Jake Gress has been promoted to the newly created position of L&W Supply VP of Operations.

• Nike Inc. (140) said it is promoting Heidi O’Neill to President of Consumer and Marketplace starting April 1. Andy Campion will become COO. He will succeed Eric Sprunk, COO, who is retiring from Nike. Matthew Friend will become the new CFO.

• Rent the Runway (100) has appointed Brian Donato as Chief Supply Chain Officer. In addition, Rent the Runway named Mike Indresano as Senior Transportation Executive.

Financial Focus

• Cole Haan announced it has filed for an initial public offering.

• Pier 1 Imports Inc. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, with plans to use the process to complete its previously announced a proposal to close up to 450 stores, which includes the closure of all its locations in Canada.

Mergers and Acquisitions

• Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. is selling its PersonalizationMall.com business to 1-800-Flowers.com.

Industry Insight

• The Home Depot Canada announced that it is hiring more than 5,500 new associates across to support its spring season.

Real Estate

• At Home Group Inc. announced the opening of five new stores this month in Tucson, AZ, Bellingham, WA, Sioux Falls, SD, Mentor, OH, and Union Gap, WA.  A location in Clovis, CA, is expected to open soon.