Kmart, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation, has promoted Peter Whitsett, 39, to senior vice president and Kmart merchandising officer, effective immediately. In his new position, Whitsett oversees all merchandise categories for Kmart stores and reports directly to Aylwin Lewis, president of Sears Holdings and chief executive officer of Kmart and Sears Retail. Whitsett previously served as SVP/GMM, with responsibilities for Kmart's hardlines, food & consumables, drug store and pharmacy merchandise divisions.
“Peter has a proven track record in several major product categories. In his new role he will take that experience and accelerate improvements already made to the depth and quality of Kmart's assortment,” Lewis said. “Peter has built a strong team since joining the business and developed trusted relationships with our vendors. We are confident that he will be instrumental in helping to chart the course for Kmart's merchandising success.”
Whitsett joined Kmart in 1999 as Director, Merchandise Planning & Replenishment and has served in a variety of positions, including Vice President/General Merchandise Manager and Divisional Vice President Merchandising Planning.
