The Home Depot Names William "Billy" Bastek Executive Vice President of Merchandising

Rhea-AI Summary

The Home Depot has appointed William "Billy" Bastek as the new executive vice president of merchandising, effective immediately. Bastek is a seasoned 33-year veteran with extensive experience in various leadership roles within the merchandising organization. Previously, he served as senior vice president of hardlines, where he led successful marketing strategies in hardware and garden. Under his leadership, the merchandising team modernized power tools, shifting to battery-powered equipment. Bastek replaces Jeff Kinnaird, who left the company after nearly 27 years of service. The Home Depot operates 2,322 stores across North America and employs approximately 475,000 associates.

Positive

• William Bastek brings 33 years of experience within the company to the role.
• Bastek has successfully modernized the power tools and outdoor power categories.
• Under his leadership, record sell-through was achieved in Halloween and holiday categories.

Negative

• The departure of Jeff Kinnaird may create a temporary leadership gap.

ATLANTA, March 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Home Depot named William "Billy" Bastek executive vice president of merchandising, effective immediately.

Bastek is a 33-year veteran of The Home Depot and brings tremendous experience to the role, having served in several leadership positions across the merchandising organization. Most recently, he was senior vice president of hardlines, where he was responsible for merchandising and marketing strategies for the hardware and garden departments. Prior to that role, he was merchandising vice president (MVP) of hardware and tools, where he oversaw the growth and transformation of the power tools and automotive departments in stores and online.

Under Bastek's leadership, the merchandising team has led the modernization of the power tools and outdoor power categories, driving an industry-wide shift from corded or gas-powered to battery-powered equipment, with an ecosystem of innovative tools powered by the same battery platforms. He and his team also drove the successful growth of The Home Depot's Halloween and holiday categories both online and in-stores, which have achieved record sell-through over the past several seasons.

"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 began his career in 1989 at HD Supply, formerly known as Maintenance Warehouse, which was originally acquired by the company in 1997. He has held various roles of increasing responsibility, including global product merchant, senior merchant, divisional merchandise manager and MVP for building materials.

Bastek replaces Jeff Kinnaird, who has decided to leave The Home Depot.

"Jeff has made significant contributions to The Home Depot since starting in the lumber aisle nearly 27 years ago and progressing through every role in our stores," said Decker. "His leadership of our Canadian division and more recently of our merchandising, marketing and online businesses is greatly appreciated. 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."

About The Home Depot
The Home Depot is the world's largest home improvement specialty retailer. At the end of fiscal year 2022, the company operated a total of 2,322 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. The company employs approximately 475,000 associates. The Home Depot's stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor's 500 index. The Home Depot is #17 on the 2022 Fortune 500.

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SOURCE The Home Depot

FAQ

Who is the new executive vice president of merchandising at Home Depot (HD)?

William 'Billy' Bastek is the new executive vice president of merchandising, effective immediately.

What experience does Billy Bastek bring to Home Depot (HD)?

Billy Bastek is a 33-year veteran of Home Depot, having held various leadership roles including senior vice president of hardlines.

What did Billy Bastek achieve in his previous role at Home Depot (HD)?

In his previous role, Bastek modernized power tools and led successful strategies for Halloween and holiday merchandising.

Why did Jeff Kinnaird leave Home Depot (HD)?

Jeff Kinnaird decided to leave Home Depot after nearly 27 years of service, contributing significantly during his tenure.

How many stores does Home Depot (HD) operate?

Home Depot operates a total of 2,322 retail stores across North America.