Levi's names new CEO as Chip Bergh retires

Levi Strauss & Co has announced the retirement of Chip Bergh as its Chief Executive Officer from 26 April 2024.

The company has elected Bergh as Executive Vice Chair of its Board of Directors until his retirement date.

Thereafter, he will transition to the role of Senior Advisor until the end of the company’s 2024 fiscal year.

Bergh will be replaced by Michelle Gass, the current President of Levi Strauss & Co, from 29 January 2024.

Since joining as President in January 2023, Gass has been responsible for leading the Levi’s brand, including its product, merchandising and marketing functions, as well as the company’s digital and global commercial operations.

Prior to this, she served as CEO at American department store retail chain Kohl's from May 2018 until December 2022.

Bob Eckert, Chairman at Levi Strauss & Co., said: "We would like to thank Chip for his inspirational leadership and unwavering commitment to the company over the last 12-plus years.

"Chip has transformed this company and will leave it far better than when he arrived. I know we will continue to benefit from Chip’s strategic perspective as he continues to serve on the company’s board."

"We are thrilled to have Michelle become our next CEO. This was a well-executed transition that required great humility and teamwork between Chip and Michelle, and it couldn’t have gone better.

"We’re confident that Michelle’s extensive retail and omni-channel experience will position LS&Co. to thrive in its next phase of growth."

Over the course of his 12-year tenure, Bergh is said to have "evolved Levi Strauss & Co. from a predominantly men’s US wholesale bottoms business to a global, DTC-driven company, in addition to reinvigorating the women's business".

Bergh said: "It has been an incredible privilege to lead this great company as CEO for the last 12 years.

"The Levi’s brand is the strongest it has ever been, and as we pivot to become more of an omni-channel, direct-to-consumer retailer, it is time for new leadership.

"While I’ve known Michelle for more than a decade, my time working closely with her this past year has given me great confidence that her experience, track record of innovation and impact, and passion for the business will position the company for sustainable, profitable growth and significant shareholder and stakeholder value creation."