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November 25.2025

2 Minutes Read

How Michael Bender's Appointment as CEO Can Transform Kohl's Amid Sales Declines

Kohl's new CEO Michael Bender with a calm expression, wearing glasses.

Kohl's Names Michael Bender CEO Amid Retail Struggles

Kohl's department store has officially appointed Michael Bender as its permanent CEO after an unsettling year marred by leadership changes and declining sales. Bender, who served as the interim CEO since May, becomes the third CEO in just three years, following the abrupt departure of Ashley Buchanan due to a leadership scandal.

Leadership Changes and Sales Decline

The transformation at Kohl's is rooted in a deeper struggle with declining sales, a trend that has persisted for several years. The company expects a drop in sales by 5% to 6% for this fiscal year, a decline that raised concerns among investors. Stock performance reflects this troubling trajectory, with shares down nearly 53% over the past five years, even as they show a slight 12% increase this year. As Bender steps into his new role, he highlights the need for a turnaround, referring to the company's progress as being in the 'middle innings' of a long game.

Focus on Customer Engagement

In his new position, Bender aims to refocus Kohl’s efforts on establishing deeper relationships with long-time shoppers by enhancing offerings in jewelry and sizing, including the popular petite sizes. Changes are underway as the brand looks to rejuvenate its image and sales approach to entice a more discerning customer base. “We hear you,” he reassures consumers, promising a refreshing shift towards curating quality products that provide value. This reflects a broader trend among retailers striving to win over cautious consumers, as many are willing to forgo spending on brands that don't resonate with them.

Embracing Change and Looking Forward

The appointment of Michael Bender signifies a commitment to turning the tide for Kohl's. His experience in retail, having held previous leadership roles at notable brands like Walmart and Victoria's Secret, has provided him with the insight needed to navigate these turbulent waters. “Over the past months as interim CEO, I’ve seen that there's still work to be done, but the potential for growth is significant,” he noted, emphasizing the excitement he senses from customers.

What’s Next for Kohl's?

As Kohl's prepares to report its third-quarter earnings, much anticipation lies in how Bender's leadership will resignify store offerings and strategies to prevent further sales declines. By focusing on private labels and responding to consumer preferences, Kohl's aims to adapt to the changing landscape of retail amid economic challenges. This shift will not only help in restoring customer trust but also hold potential for revitalizing overall sales performance. The crucial question remains: Will these strategies be enough to lure back customers and revive the brand's image in a competitive market?

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How Michael Bender's Appointment as CEO Can Transform Kohl's Amid Sales Declines

Kohl's Names Michael Bender CEO Amid Retail Struggles

Leadership Changes and Sales Decline

Focus on Customer Engagement

Embracing Change and Looking Forward

What’s Next for Kohl's?

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