US apparel retailer Lands’ End has appointed digital commerce executive Charlie Cole as its new CEO, effective July 13, succeeding Andrew McLean. 

Cole joins the company with more than two decades of experience in digital commerce, technology and omnichannel retail. He most recently served as interim chief digital officer at furniture brand Thuma and previously held leadership roles at XGen AI, Tribute Technology, FTD, Tumi and Samsonite.

The appointment comes as Lands’ End enters a new chapter following the completion of its joint venture with WHP Global earlier this year, a deal designed to accelerate the brand’s international expansion, licensing business and entry into new product categories.

Board chairman Josephine Linden said Cole’s experience in brand transformation, digital innovation, and customer engagement makes him well-positioned to lead the retailer through its next phase of growth.

“The board is confident that his expertise will enable him to execute and expand on the strategy the Company recently laid out while positioning Lands’ End exceptionally well to drive the next phase of profitable growth and sustainable shareholder value creation,” Linden said. 

McLean, who has led Lands’ End since early 2023, oversaw the company’s strategic repositioning and the formation of its joint venture with WHP Global. He will remain with the business in an advisory capacity to ensure a smooth transition.

“During Andrew’s tenure, Lands’ End executed a strategic transformation that strengthened both the business and the balance sheet and created meaningful opportunities for future value creation,” Linden added. 

“Andrew’s leadership in establishing the WHP Global joint venture represents a significant milestone in unlocking the long-term potential of the Lands’ End brand. We are grateful that he will continue supporting the company during this transition.”