Dive Brief:
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Sally Beauty Holdings on Tuesday announced that it hired Kevin Metz as vice president of e-commerce and Vanathy Lakshmi as vice president of digital product to help the retailer revamp its digital strategy.
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Metz will oversee the retailer's North American digital growth initiatives, including the websites for Sally Beauty and Cosmo Prof, the retailer's mobile app, portals, third-party online marketplaces and integrations with brick-and-mortar stores, per a company press release sent to Retail Dive. Prior to joining Sally Beauty, he held roles at Stuller, Ulta Beauty and Yankee Candle, the company's statement noted.
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Lakshmi will oversee the retailer's digital guest experience and digital product roadmap across the company, according to the press release. She brings more than ten years of experience in roles for companies like Walmart, Pier One, Academy Sports and Frontgate.
Dive Insight:
Sally Beauty's hires come as the retailer updates its digital execution. In early January, the retailer announced changes to its mobile app and its creation of a social media influencer program as part of an overall rebranding effort. The retailer also added Instagram shopping and Apple Pay to its website and introduced ColorView AI Technology to let shoppers virtually try hair color and cosmetics before purchasing.
"We are thrilled to add Kevin and Vanathy to the team to start leveraging their extensive expertise in e-commerce as Sally Beauty continues its digital transformation," Chris Brickman, chief executive of Sally Beauty Holdings, said in a statement. "They will take us to the next level in our drive for a consumer-driven digital environment that operates seamlessly in partnership with our stores and supply chain."
The retailer has also been rethinking its payment offerings. Last fall, Sally Beauty announced plans to roll out its own private label credit card, which will be piloted in select stores during the second quarter of 2020. The card introduction is part of the larger trend of retailers updating their loyalty programs, including competitors like Sephora partnering with Venmo.
