The US’ largest beauty retailer Ulta Beauty has lost the leadership of CEO Mary Dillon, who has decided to step away from the business in June.
President Dave Kimbell will be her successor and is expected to be nominated for a seat on the Board of Directors.
Despite her exit from Ulta’s helm, Dillon will transition to Executive Chair of the Board of Directors, which she takes over from Robert DiRomualod, who retires from the Board after three years in the role of Chair and 17 years of service in total.
The former Global Chief Marketing Officer at fast food chain McDonalds has captained Ulta’s ship for the last eight years and said her time with the retailer had been a “true joy”.
She added: “It has been the honour of my career to lead the Ulta Beauty family for the last eight years and a true joy to have been inspired by our dedicated associates and beauty-loving guests daily.
“Our strategies, culture and continuous innovation have strengthened our business model, ensuring we are well-positioned to continue leading the industry.”
Dillon was instrumental in the development of the beauty retailer’s business growth, doubling its fleet of stores and significantly increasing its e-commerce presence.
Under her watch, the retailer has served as an exemplary model in terms of transparency and recycling initiatives.
Earlier this month, the brand became the first retailer to launch a dedicated shopping platform with recycling company Loop, allowing customers to shop beauty packaging that can be refilled and reused by the brand.
Meanwhile, its Conscious Beauty model certifies brands under five pillars: ‘clean’ ingredients, cruelty-free, vegan, sustainable packaging and positive impact, to help customers make more informed decisions when shopping beauty.
Kimbell added that he was “humbled” to follow Dillon as Ulta’s next CEO.
“We will continue to build upon the foundation she set to ensure Ulta Beauty is a destination where every guest feels welcome and every associate can have a fulfilling career.”
Ulta’s Chief Store Operations Officer, Kecia Steelman, has also been promoted to Chief Operating Officer.