Report: Kohl’s chief marketer resigns

A shakeup in the executive ranks is reportedly occurring at Kohl’s.

According to AdAge, Will Setliff, executive VP of marketing at the department store chain, is resigning his position the week of April 11. There has been no press release from Kohl’s or Setliff and surprisingly little coverage of his career shift outside of AdAge.

Setliff, whose LinkedIn profile still lists him working at Kohl’s, joined the retailer in his current position in February 2014. He is an experienced retail marketer with executive experience at firms including Darden Restaurants and Target, where he served from 2004-2012 and rose to the rank of senior VP of marketing.

While at Kohl’s, Setliff oversaw activities such as the retailer’s recent sponsorship of the Oscars with a corresponding digital campaign. Kohl’s does not currently have a chief marketing officer, but Setliff reported to chief merchandising and customer officer Michelle Gass.

"We thank Will for his many contributions to Kohl's during his service and wish him well in his future endeavors," a company spokesperson is quoted as saying in the article. A search for a replacement is underway.

Coincidentally, two other high-level marketing executives at major retailers left their jobs this week. Martine Reardon, chief marketing officer of Macy’s, is leaving the company to take some personal time after a 32-year career there, while Ashley Sargent Price is leaving a creative executive position at J.Crew to become senior VP and creative director of marketing at Abercrombie & Fitch.