Gap stirred things up in the retail sector this week with the appointment of longtime Nike executive Maggie Gauger to be the new Global Brand President and CEO of Athleta.
Gauger succeeds Chris Blakeslee, who led the company through the first stages of its turnaround over the last two years and will remain in an advisory role to ease the transition. Gauger boasts more than 20 years of experience at Nike, most recently leading its North America Women’s Business, and has an extensive background in retail, strategy, and digital commerce.
Gap pointed to Gauger's expertise in business transformation, consumer-centric strategy, and her commitment to empowering women and girls—qualities, which are seen as vital for Athleta's new direction as it looks to regain a competitive edge in the women’s activewear market.
Gauger takes over the Athleta brand on August 1.