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Genesco and Kohl’s announce leadership retirements, Niber adds CCO
Genesco says Parag Desai will retire Oct. 31, while Kohl’s chose Wendy Arlin as board chair and named Niren Chaudhary to its board and audit committee.
Genesco said Parag Desai, senior vice president, chief strategy and digital officer, will retire on Oct. 31, after more than 10 years at the footwear retailer. The company said his responsibilities will shift to other members of its senior leadership team.
Kohl’s said its board chair John Schlifske is retiring after 15 years on the board, citing personal reasons, and Wendy Arlin will succeed him as chair with immediate effect. Kohl’s noted Arlin has been a director since 2023 and has chaired its finance and audit committees since May 2025, roles she will continue.
Kohl’s also added Niren Chaudhary to its board and audit committee, with his term running through the company’s shareholder meeting in 2027, when he is expected to stand for election. Separately, textile and apparel materials firm Niber named Jochen Lagemann as its new chief commercial officer, effective Aug. 1.
Niber said Lagemann brings more than 25 years of experience in ingredient branding in performance apparel and textiles, and that he will focus on the material’s commercial and go-to-market strategy, as well as product positioning. The outlet described the appointments as part of HR and leadership changes across the companies.