Claire’s taps Bath & Body Works vet as CFO, COO

Claire’s Holdings has appointed a 25-year retailing veteran to a dual C-suite position. 

The young women’s jewelry and accessories retailer has appointed Chris Cramer as CFO and COO. He will oversee Claire’s finance, supply chain, technology and North American real estate teams. 

Most recently, Cramer served as president of Parade, a Gen Z-focused intimate and lifestyle apparel retailer. Prior to joining Parade, he spent over 20 years with Bath & Body Works (and L Brands) in leadership roles including CFO and, most recently, from 2020 to 2022, COO of BBWI.

Cramer also held leadership positions at IBM and Accenture (Andersen Consulting). 

“With a track record of over 25 years of high-performance industry experience, Chris brings demonstrated operational and financial leadership and a passion for collaboration to our organization," said Ryan Vero, CEO. "I'm confident he will help us continue to unlock operational efficiency and deliver the next phase of profitable growth."

Cramer joins Claire’s as the retailer has been expanding its reach at home and abroad. In the U.S., Claire’s has been expanding via in-store partnerships with retailers, including Macy’s and Walmart.  

In October, Claire’s teamed up with Kohl’s to roll out an assortment of on-trend jewelry, accessories and cosmetics, along with seasonal items, to more than 700 Kohl’s locations. (Also in October, Claire’s relaunced its more than 18 million member loyalty program under a new name and brand identity: C.CLUB.) The retailer also has a presence in grocery chains, including Albertsons, Kroger, Giant Eagle and more.

On the global front, Claire’s opened a flagship in Paris earlier this year. Its European expansion plans also include 10 locations in Italy. 

“I'm excited to join Claire's as it continues to build on the momentum it has created as a true destination for today's consumer and a powerful, global fashion brand," said Cramer.

Claire’s is available in more than 40 retailers globally including Macy’s, CVS, Amazon, Albertsons, Asda, Tesco, DSW, Galleries Lafayette, Kroger, Matalan, Toy Center, Madeleine, Toys “R” Us and more in addition to the brand’s more than 2,750 stores worldwide.