Levi Strauss & Co. (San Francisco) announced that President Michelle Gass will become CEO in January. That move follows current CEO Chip Bergh’s decision to retire on April 26, 2024.
Gass will take over at the end of January and work with Bergh until his retirement date. This move completes a transition plan unveiled in November 2022.
“I am honored to be stepping in to lead this iconic brand and company, one that I have deeply admired and respected for many years. Levi’s is more than a denim icon; it’s part of our cultural fabric and an enduring symbol of quality, innovation and progress,” said Gass, who was an executive at Kohl’s before joining Levi’s. “In the past year, Chip and I have traveled the globe, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting many members of the LS&Co. team. Those interactions have only underscored my confidence in the incredible potential of our business, the strength of our brands and the power of the company’s values-driven, profits-through-principles approach.”
Said Bergh: “The Levi’s brand is the strongest it has ever been, and as we pivot to become more of an omni-channel, direct-to-consumer retailer, it is time for new leadership. While I’ve known Michelle for more than a decade, my time working closely with her this past year has given me great confidence that her experience, track record of innovation and impact, and passion for the business will position the company for sustainable, profitable growth and significant shareholder and stakeholder value creation.”
Levi Strauss & Co. products are sold in more than 110 countries worldwide through a combination of chain retailers, department stores, online sites and about 3200 brand-dedicated stores and shop-in-shops.