Longtime J.C. Penney Merchant John Tighe Leaving

J.C. Penney chief merchant John Tighe is leaving the Plano-based department store chain "to pursue other opportunities," the company said Friday.Tighe has been chief merchant and executive vice president since 2015 and joined Penney in 2002 from May Department Stores where he was a buyer. For many years Tighe was being groomed for bigger jobs and he was promoted through the company. He had experience in almost every Penney department.But last year and this year apparel has failed to get traction at Penney, particularly women's, its largest department.Penney said the position of chief merchant has been eliminated.Chairman and CEO Marvin Ellison said in a press release that the realignment of reflects "a growing need to ensure our company remains nimble and flexible amid the constant change and transformation in the retail environment."Three merchandise division heads will report to Ellison. They are:Jodie Johnson, senior vice president and senior merchandise manager of women's apparel, Sephora, salon, women's specialty, footwear and handbags.James Starke, senior vice president and general merchandise manager of men's apparel, children's apparel and jewelry.Val Harris, senior vice president of product development and design.Tony Hurst, senior vice president and general merchandise manager of home, will also be responsible for custom window design and home services and commercial sales. He will report to Joe McFarland, executive vice president of stores.Twitter: @MariaHalkias  Continue reading...