J Jill president and CEO Claire Spofford has decided to retire from her role in April.

Spofford assumed the position at J Jill in February 2021 after her stint at Cornerstone Brands as a president. She also held leadership roles at Garnet Hill, Orchard Brands, and Timberland.

“Under Claire’s leadership, J Jill has strengthened its operating model and made strategic investments to improve the overall health of the business, creating a pathway toward profitable, sustainable growth,” said Michael Rahamim, chairman of the board at J Jill.

An executive search firm has been hired to help find Spofford’s successor.

Net income grows as sales creep up

Meanwhile, the company reported its net income grew 6.3 per cent during the last quarter to $12.3 million as net sales climbed 0.3 per cent to $151.3 million.

Comparable sales fell 0.8 per cent due to hurricane-related disruptions in the quarter. Direct-to-consumer net sales, which improved 0.3 per cent, accounted for 45.7 per cent of net sales.

“As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our operating principles and continue to invest in strategic initiatives such as systems and new stores that we believe will enhance the omni-channel experience and broaden our reach longer-term,” said Spofford.

“In addition to continuing to invest in the business, we are also pleased to further expand our total shareholder return strategy to include a new share repurchase program further underscoring our confidence in the business and the long-term opportunities that remain in front of us.”

For the fourth quarter, the company forecasts net sales to decline 4 per cent to 6 per cent and comparable sales to rise 1 per cent to 3 per cent.

For the full year, the company estimates net sales to be about flat to up 1 per cent.