Hudson’s Bay appointed Liz Rodbell as president and CEO of the Canadian retailer, effective December 1. She succeeds Sophia Hwang-Judiesch, who is stepping down as president to pursue another opportunity.
Hudson Bay did not appoint a CEO during Hwang-Judiesch’s time as president, which began after the retailer’s former president and CEO, Iain Nairn, retired in January.
Rodbell has worked as Hudson’s Bay’s president from 2013 to 2017.
Her appointment coincides with the appointment of Michael Culhane as chief operating officer and chief financial officer of Hudson’s Bay. Culhane has been serving as the chief financial officer of HBC LP since 2020.
In a press release, the company also highlighted Rodbell’s “strategic oversight and impact on the overall business” in her preceding role as chief merchant, adding that she “brings a wealth of industry expertise to the role, with strongly established vendor relationships.”
Richard Baker, governor and executive chairman of HBC, said, “I am delighted to welcome Liz back to the HBC family, and I am certain she will drive the continued transformation of Hudson’s Bay to deliver the most exciting shopping experience for Canadian customers.” He added, “When she was last with the company, Liz drove 22% sales growth for Hudson’s Bay.”
“I am absolutely thrilled to rejoin Hudson’s Bay. My focus, first and foremost, is on the customer—ensuring we have the most relevant assortment, strong brand partners, and an overall experience that is inspiring and relevant to our shoppers,” said Rodbell.
Regarding Hwang-Judiesch, Baker said, “Sophia has been a driving force and steady hand at Hudson’s Bay, and we are grateful for her many contributions in leading us through a very challenging time in our industry. We wish her continued success.”
“My gratitude for the team at Hudson’s Bay is immeasurable, and I could not be prouder of the people that work tirelessly to serve our customers in our stores, DCs and offices across the country. I wish Liz and the entire Hudson’s Bay organization much success,” shared Hwang-Judiesch.
Hudson’s Bay operates 83 stores and thebay.com online marketplace.
Photos courtesy Reuters, Hudson’s Bay
