Polo's New Pilot

Polo Ralph Lauren Corp. (New York) has named former J. Crew ceo Ken Pilot as president, factory stores and retail concept development, effective immediately.

Pilot, who will report directly to Bridget Ryan Berman, group president of Polo Ralph Lauren retail worldwide, will replace James Gundell, who recently left the company “to pursue other opportunities.”

At J. Crew (New York), Pilot was responsible for delivering sales and profit growth for retail stores, catalog and Internet business. He had previously spent 13 years with Gap Inc. (San Francisco), where he held a variety of merchandising leadership roles, including president of Gap International, president of Gap Global and senior vp, Gap outlet and new business development.

“As we continue the expansion and growth of our worldwide retail business, Ken's expertise will add strategic strength to the Polo Ralph Lauren retail management team,” said Berman.