Borders continues to remake its management team, bringing in an executive with broad experience as its new executive v-p, chief merchandising officer. Michael Edwards, most recently president and CEO of Ellington Leather, a Portland, Ore.-based wholesaler of leather handbags and accessories, has been named to succeed Anne Kubek who held the post of executive v-p, merchandising and marketing since Ron Marshall took over as CEO of the chain at the beginning of the year. According to Borders, Edwards will be charged with “developing and executing merchandising and marketing strategies to drive sales and profit as Borders works to re-engage with customers as a bookseller for serious readers.”
Executives reporting to Edwards are Larry Norton,senior v-p, merchandising and distribution; Art Keeney, senior v-p, marketing; Andi Lobdell, senior v-p, merchandise planning and supply chain; and Rich Fahle, v-p, outreach and entertainment.
In addition to heading Ellington, Edwards served in executive capacities at lucy Activewear, Jo-Ann Stores Golfsmith and CompUSA. He also serves as a trustee of the International Council of Shopping Centers.
