Omni Retail Enterprises, the parent company of Bodybuilding.com, Pier1.com, DressBarn.com, Mentorbox.com, and owner of the intellectual property of Modell’s Sporting Goods, Franklin Mint, SteinMart, Linens-N-Things, and Ralph & Russo, named retail industry insider Sharon M. Leite CEO.

Leite will focus on revitalizing Omni’s brands “while harnessing the power of connection with its customers“.

“Omni’s brands are trusted by millions of consumers and have an incredible legacy. I am honored to join Omni at this pivotal time. We have a remarkable opportunity to accelerate growth by expanding into new channels and categories to make these iconic brands more accessible to consumers while honoring their heritage,” said Leite. “I’m excited to lead these brands into a new era. The leadership team, which we are in the process of building, and ownership are committed to providing the expertise and resources needed so each brand can reach its potential.”

“We are thrilled Sharon will bring her tremendous passion for the consumer, depth of digital and retail experience, commitment to building a winning team and a proven track record of developing consumer brands to the newly formed Omni Retail Enterprises. “Her unique background and experience make her the perfect choice as CEO for Omni at this critical time,” said Raj Gupta, executive chair of Omni Retail Enterprises.

Leite has over 25 years of experience leading consumer and retail businesses in a diverse range of industries, from apparel, consumer-packaged goods, health & wellness, and home. She brings deep consumer marketing and digital transformational expertise, strong operational experience, a proven track record of shareholder value creation, and a demonstrated commitment to leadership and organizational development.

Most recently, Leite was the CEO of Ideal Image, where she led a transformation and brand-growth strategy to the aesthetics, beauty and wellness categories. Before Ideal Image, she was CEO of The Vitamin Shoppe, leading the company’s turnaround. Earlier in her career, Leite held executive leader roles at Godiva Chocolatier, Pier 1 Imports, Bath & Body Works, Gap, Inc., and The Walt Disney Company. She serves on the boards of Lovesac and The M. J. Neeley School of Business at Texas Christian University. Leite received her MBA from The Jack Welch Management Institute.

Image courtesy Omni