Ulta Beauty Names Kecia Steelman as New CEO

Ulta Beauty, the largest specialty beauty retailer in the United States, has announced that Dave Kimbell will step down as Chief Executive Officer and resign from the company’s Board of Directors after 11 years with the organization. Kimbell, who has served as CEO since 2021, will transition to an advisory role until June 28, 2025. Effective January 6, 2025, Kecia Steelman, currently President and Chief Operating Officer, will assume the roles of President and CEO and join the company’s Board of Directors.

Lorna Nagler, Chair of Ulta Beauty’s Board, acknowledged Kimbell’s contributions, emphasizing his dedication, leadership, and the transformative impact he had on the company. She credited him with advancing Ulta Beauty’s market position, championing inclusivity, and fostering a strong company culture. The Board expressed appreciation for his ongoing support during the leadership transition.

Kimbell, who joined Ulta Beauty in 2014, held various executive positions before becoming CEO. Under his leadership, the company achieved remarkable growth, surpassing $11 billion in annual revenue and delivering double-digit increases in earnings per share. He was instrumental in expanding the company’s loyalty program and enhancing brand reputation, solidifying Ulta Beauty’s position as a market leader in beauty and wellness.

Reflecting on his tenure, Kimbell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside passionate associates and reaffirmed his confidence in Steelman’s ability to drive the company’s future growth. He described her as a strategic leader with a proven track record of operational excellence and a commitment to fostering an inclusive culture.

Nagler highlighted that Steelman’s promotion was the result of a comprehensive succession planning process. She praised Steelman’s extensive experience in the beauty and retail sectors, her operational expertise, and her ability to create exceptional guest experiences. Steelman has been instrumental in shaping Ulta Beauty’s recently refreshed strategic framework and is poised to lead the company into its next phase of growth.

Steelman, who was named President and Chief Operating Officer in 2023, has been with Ulta Beauty since 2014. She is widely respected in the industry for her thoughtful leadership and has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s strategies for profitable growth. Her tenure has been marked by consistent success across various domains, including retail operations, real estate, corporate strategy, and business transformation.

In accepting her new role, Steelman acknowledged Kimbell’s support and mentorship, expressing her commitment to advancing the company’s strategic priorities. She emphasized Ulta Beauty’s mission as a destination that inspires guests and associates alike and shared her vision for capturing a greater market share in beauty and wellness. Steelman reaffirmed her dedication to fostering collaboration and operational excellence as she leads the company into its next chapter.

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