Ulta Beauty Names Kecia Steelman as New President and Chief Executive Officer

Ulta Beauty Appoints New President and CEO: Kecia Steelman

In a significant leadership change, Ulta Beauty, a US-based specialty beauty retailer, has announced the appointment of Kecia Steelman as its new president and CEO. This move follows the retirement of Dave Kimbell, who has been with the company for 11 years.

A New Era at Ulta Beauty

Dave Kimbell’s tenure as CEO saw the company achieve remarkable growth, with annual revenue exceeding $11 billion and double-digit growth in diluted earnings per share. He will continue to serve as an advisor to the company until June 28, 2025.

In a statement, Kimbell expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead Ulta Beauty: "Serving as CEO of Ulta Beauty has been the highlight of my career, and I am proud to have led and worked alongside so many associates who are passionate about delivering great experiences for our guests."

Kecia Steelman: A Strategic Leader

Steelman, who was named president and COO in 2023, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. With over ten years at Ulta Beauty, she has held various executive positions across retail operations and services, real estate, corporate strategy, and business transformation.

On her appointment, Steelman said: "Dave has been a supportive leader, mentor, and friend, and I am honored to become the next CEO of Ulta Beauty. We are more than just a beauty retailer – we are a destination that helps bring to life all the beautiful possibilities that lie within every guest and associate who walks through our doors."

A New Vision for Ulta Beauty

Under Steelman’s leadership, the company aims to capture greater market share in beauty and wellness while delivering long-term profitable growth. She is confident that the strategic priorities shared last fall will enable the company to achieve its goals.

Steelman expressed her excitement about leading the outstanding teams at Ulta Beauty: "I am excited to unlock even greater advantages of our operating model, drive best-in-class execution, and position Ulta Beauty for our next chapter of growth as the beauty destination for a lifetime."

A Look Ahead

In October 2024, Ulta Beauty unveiled its plan to open 200 new stores by 2027 as part of its long-term financial goals and strategy. This expansion is expected to further solidify the company’s position in the market.

The appointment of Steelman as president and CEO marks a significant milestone for Ulta Beauty. With her proven track record of driving operational excellence and creating exceptional guest experiences, the company is well-positioned for continued growth and success.

About Ulta Beauty

Ulta Beauty is a US-based specialty beauty retailer that offers a wide range of products from various brands. The company has been recognized for its commitment to delivering great experiences for its guests and fostering a caring and inclusive culture.

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