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Kmart taps diversity chief

Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 8/20/2001 12:00:00 AM

TROY, MI —

Kmart has made diversity one of its key values, and recently it brought that to a personnel level by creating two senior level positions.

Randy Allen has been named Kmart's first chief officer of diversity, reporting directly to Chuck Conaway, chairman and ceo. As executive vp, strategic initiatives and chief diversity officer, she will be responsible for supporting corporate initiatives tied to key strategic imperatives, including the integration of Bluelight.com into Kmart, management of the food distribution agreement with Fleming Cos. Inc. and the company's multi-cultural activities.

In addition, Rose Reza has moved into the newly created position of senior vp, multi-cultural merchandising and will develop a merchandising assortment appropriate for many communities, connecting with the diverse cultures of Kmart's customer base.

Regarding Allen, Conaway said, "Randy will create momentum around our key corporate initiatives and ensure we remain focused on implementing programs that are in line with our strategic objectives. In her role as chief diversity officer, Randy will help Kmart build energy around diversity among the company's key constituents including customers, brand partners, communities and associates."

Allen was formerly executive vp, chief planning and information officer, and the company is searching for a replacement.

Reza joined Kmart this March after 15 years at Wal-Mart. She now reports to Cecil Kearse, executive vp, merchandising.

As a result of Reza's promotion, William Wulfers has joined Kmart to fill Reza's former position as senior vp, Southeast division, responsible for overseeing the operations of approximately 550 stores and 50,000 associates in nine states. A 34-year retail veteran, Wulfers served 14 years at Wal-Mart, most recently as a regional vp, store operations.

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