Billy Bastek is The Home Depot’s new executive vice president of merchandising, effective immediately, the home improvement retailer announced on March 15. Bastek’s new job is an internal promotion. He most recently served as senior vice president of hardlines. In that position, Bastek was responsible for merchandising and marketing strategies for the hardware and garden departments, the company said.
Before that, he was merchandising vice president of hardware and tools, where he oversaw the growth and transformation of the power tool and automotive departments in stores and online. Bastek began his career in home improvement retail over three decades ago in 1989 at Maintenance Warehouse, which later became HD Supply. Home Depot acquired that business in 1997.
“Billy is an experienced merchant, leader and mentor who is known for his innovative approach to merchandising, transforming The Home Depot’s product assortment and bringing incredible value to our customers,” said Ted Decker, chair, president and CEO of The Home Depot. “We’re fortunate to have a talented bench of senior leaders like Billy, as well as future leaders across the company, and I look forward to working with him in his new and expanded role.”
Bastek replaces Jeff Kinnaird, “who has decided to leave The Home Depot,” according to the announcement, which did not offer any further details regarding Kinnaird’s departure or next move. Kinnaird joined the company nearly 30 years ago in a position in the lumber aisle. From that position, he progressed “through every role in our stores,” Decker said. Kinnaird eventually rose to lead the company’s Canadian division and later, Home Depot’s merchandising, marketing and online businesses. “Jeff has been a champion of our culture and values, and I would like to thank him for his hard work and numerous contributions across his career. I wish him well in his future endeavors,” Decker said.
Source: Retail Drive
Source: Home Depot
