Lowe’s hires a chief merchandising executive

The Lowe’s Cos. Inc., which sells home improvement products through stores and online, has hired Michael A. Jones as its chief merchandising officer. His job includes oversight of merchandising for Lowes.com and the retail chain’s stores, along with global sourcing. He reports to chief customer officer Gregory Bridgeford.

Lowe’s also says it has promoted Stephen Szilagyi to chief supply officer. He reports to chief operating officer Rick Damron.

Lowe’s is No. 47 in the Internet Retailer Top 500 Guide.

Jones was president of North American and Latin America operations for outdoor equipment manufacturer Husqvarna AB, Lowe’s says. Before that, he held various positions at General Electric Co., including general manager of cooking products.

“Mike has extensive experience with consumer products in categories relevant to the home improvement business,” said Bridgeford. “His experience in leading businesses, identifying and pursuing marketing opportunities, and discipline around value creation throughout the chain, from supplier to consumer, make him an outstanding fit for this position.”

Lowe’s says it hired Jones in 2001 regional director of distribution, and that he became a senior vice president of distribution in 2006.