GAP APPOINTS NEW GLOBAL HEAD OF BANANA REPUBLIC

banana republic
by Stephen Garner

banana republicGap Inc. has announced the appointment of Mark Breitbard as president and chief executive officer of Banana Republic. Breitbard will report to Art Peck, president and chief executive officer of Gap Inc., and will serve on the company’s senior leadership team. Peck will continue to directly oversee Banana Republic until Breitbard joins the company in early May.

Most recently, Breitbard served as chief executive officer at The Gymboree Corporation from 2013 until early 2017. From 2010 to 2013, Breitbard held leadership positions across Gap North America, where he was instrumental in delivering the product-led resurgence of Gap’s North America business. He also served as chief merchandising and creative officer of Old Navy from 2009 to early 2010. Previously, Breitbard served in leadership roles at Levi Strauss & Co. and Abercrombie & Fitch.

“Mark brings significant retail leadership experience to Gap Inc., along with deep knowledge of the company and our customer,” said Peck. “We know what Banana Republic is capable of, and Mark’s ability to drive transformation and innovation will help revitalize the brand and position it to achieve its long-term potential.”

“I believe there’s tremendous opportunity for Banana Republic to differentiate itself with optimized product and customer experiences,” added Breitbard. “I’m looking forward to working with the Banana Republic team to build the brand for the future.”