J.C. Penney Names Tighe New Chief Merchant

J.C. Penney has named John Tighe as its new executive vice president, chief merchant, effective October 1, reporting to the company’s chief executive officer Marvin Ellison.

Tighe most recently served as senior vp/senior gmm for the men’s, children’s, footwear, handbag and intimate apparel divisions. He will succeed Elizabeth Sweney who will serve in an advisory role through the end of the fiscal year, upon which time she will retire from the company after 16 years of service.

“John is an extraordinary merchant who, in his career, has curated some of the most high-performing brand portfolios in retail, including leading the growth of jcp.com,” said Ellison. “This broad experience gives him a keen understanding of the retail business, which will be essential to our success as we seize greater opportunities in omnichannel and increased private brand penetration, while positioning J.C. Penney as the best shopping destination for national brands and in-store attractions.”

Tighe began his 24-year retail career at May Department Stores in a series of merchandising roles that spanned more than a decade at Filene’s and Meier & Frank. Tighe joined J.C. Penney as a buyer in 2002 and was later promoted to divisional vice president, overseeing various apparel categories such as junior’s sportswear, missy casual and special sizes before leading jcp.com in 2009 as senior vice president. In 2010, he was appointed senior vice president and general merchandise manager of the company’s home division before transitioning to men’s in 2012.