The Wayne-based retailer said Monday that it had added a new position of executive vice president, global chief technology officer, to its leadership team to help the company improve its digital strategy and performance.
Lance Wills joins the company in the new technology position June 13. Wills comes to Toys “R” Us with experience leading digital efforts at other retail brands.
He previously was global head of digital technology for American Eagle Outfitters, and also was vice president for direct and omnichannel technologies at Macy’s.
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The toy retailer also has named Andre Javes as its president of Toys “R” Us, Asia Pacific.
He replaces Monika Merz, who is retiring from that position at the end of this month.
Wills’ job as chief technology officer will make him responsible for “ensuring the enhancement of the customer experience by creating a seamless approach through al available shopping channels,” the company said.
Wills will report directly to chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dave Brandon.
The company also recently hired Phillip Newmoyer as senior vice president and chief information officer to lead the IT work involved in bringing Toys “R” Us’ e-commerce platform back to an in house operation. Newmoyer will report to Wills.
“Lance has the talent, experience and leadership qualities that will be instrumental in helping position our IT and digital teams for success in the company’s journey to growth,” Brandon said in a statement.
Wills earned a diploma in information technology from the Central Institute of Technology in Wellington, New Zealand.
Javes has been managing director, Toys “R” Us Southeast Asia and Greater China, most recently. He first joined the company in 2008 as general merchandising manager for Toys “R” Us, Australia. He left the company from 2009 to 2012 to serve as chief executive officer at Anaconda Group Pty, a retail chain of camping, outdoor and adventure gear stores in Australia.
He returned to Toys “R” Us in 2013 as managing director, Australia.
“Andre has made significant contributions to the continued growth and success of our business throughout Asia and Australia,” Brandon said, adding that he expect Javes to help “grow and strengthen our brands’ position in the global marketplace.” He will report to Brandon.
Javes received a certificate of management from Deakin University in Australia.
Date: May 24, 2016