Kmart's Ryman feels global shift

TROY, MI — In a strategic move to raise the quotient of merchandising and marketing expertise in its global sourcing operation, Kmart has shifted Steve Ryman into a new area, making him senior vp, global operations. The responsibilities of his previous position as senior vp, gmm of home, seasonal, lawn & garden and Martha Stewart Everyday are being reapportioned to other executives.

Oversight of both soft and hard home moves to Paula Paquette, who has been promoted to vp and gmm, home. She will report to Cecil Kearse, executive vp, merchandising. Her most recent position was divisional vp, soft home.

Kearse also assumes responsibility for the Martha Stewart Everyday program.

In related moves, Rob Atteberry has been promoted to replace Paquette as divisional vp, soft home. Previously the buyer for fashion bedding, Atteberry has held planning and merchandising positions at Kmart.

Now shifted to the position of buyer, fashion bedding is Joel Fasbenber, previously buyer, kitchen and tabletop.

Atteberry and Vinnie Franco, divisional vp, hard home, will both report directly to Paquette.

Steve Jacobson has been promoted to divisional vp, merchandising, lawn and garden, responsible for both the merchandising and operational aspects of lawn and garden, including horticulture and outdoor living. He will report directly to John Owen, senior vp and gmm, hardlines. Owen will continue to report to Kearse.

Ron Lalla, who was previously senior vp, global operations, was recently named senior vp, business development.