The Gymboree Corporation announced the appointment of Daniel Griesemer as the company’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 22, 2017. Griesemer joins Gymboree after a successful five-year tenure leading Tilly’s, an action sports-inspired teen and young adult apparel retailer where he served as President and CEO. Griesemer assumes his responsibilities from Interim CEO Mark Weikel, who will continue his role as a member of the Board of Directors.
“We are extremely pleased to welcome Dan to the Gymboree team. He is an agile and experienced retail executive with an established track record of building customer loyalty in an omnichannel environment,” said Lew Klessel, a member of the Board of Directors. “Dan’s proven leadership in the specialty-store sector, combined with his operational and financial experience, make him an ideal person to lead Gymboree into the future as the team works to establish a sustainable capital structure and position the company for long-term success. We would also like to thank Mark for his contributions as Interim CEO and to the search for a permanent leader for Gymboree.”
Griesemer, brings to Gymboree a distinguished track record of strategically aligning leading apparel brands to modern ecommerce and retail market dynamics. In addition to his experience at Tilly’s, Griesemer previously served as President and CEO at Coldwater Creek, a women’s clothier, and held executive leadership positions at Gap Inc., GapKids and Gap Inc. International division. Mr. Griesemer began his career with Macy’s Stores. In each position of increased responsibility, Griesemer adapted to the rapidly changing retail marketplace by increasing consumer engagement, elevating the customer experience, and succeeding in the e-commerce and digital arena.
“I am honored that the Board has selected me to lead Gymboree at this pivotal time for the company,” said Griesemer. “We have three vibrant brands, loyal customers and substantial opportunities to continue to improve and grow the business. I look forward to working with Gymboree’s talented team to ensure we have the right foundation in place as we continue to execute on key strategic initiatives and remain focused on delivering the merchandise and the shopping experience that delights both parents and kids.”