Michael Bender Named Kohl’s Permanent CEO Amid Challenges

Indianapolis, IN, November 25, 2025

Kohl’s Corporation has appointed Michael Bender as its permanent CEO, the fourth leadership change in as many years. Bender, who was interim CEO since May, aims to stabilize the company as it faces declining sales and increased competition. His predecessor, Ashley Buchanan, was dismissed after an internal investigation. The board’s unanimous decision underscores hope for improvement in Kohl’s operational efficiency and customer engagement strategies to overcome current challenges.

Indianapolis, IN – Kohl’s Corporation’s recent appointment of Michael Bender as its permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO) marks a significant moment in the retailer’s ongoing efforts to stabilize its business. This is the fourth leadership change within the company in as many years, highlighting the turbulence that has characterized Kohl’s in recent times. Bender, who has spent 30 years in retail with experience at major corporations like Walmart and PepsiCo, was named interim CEO in May 2025 before the board made his position permanent following a thorough search.

Bender’s appointment comes in the wake of Ashley Buchanan’s dismissal, which followed an internal investigation into conflicts of interest related to undisclosed vendor relationships. Buchanan had only held the CEO role for less than four months. With Bender now at the helm, Kohl’s aims to implement strategies aimed at improving operational efficiency to tackle the recent sales decline.

Kohl’s has faced mounting challenges in the retail sector, including dwindling annual sales and fierce competition from e-commerce platforms and leading retailers. However, under Bender’s leadership, the company is currently focusing on enhancing profitability and customer engagement with new initiatives. The board’s unanimous decision to confirm Bender signals a hope for restoration of stability within the firm.

Since financial markets react swiftly to leadership changes, Kohl’s stock is currently trading at $15.73 per share, indicating a cautious outlook from investors as the company navigates through its restructuring process.

Leadership Changes in Position

The leadership landscape at Kohl’s has seen significant shifts, with Michael Bender becoming the permanent CEO, characterized by the turmoil of multiple leadership changes in recent years. This situation illustrates the struggles that traditional retailers face in adapting to an evolving marketplace.

Background on Michael Bender

With an impressive background, Michael Bender brings valuable expertise from his three decades in the retail industry. His previous roles at major corporations have equipped him with the insights necessary to guide Kohl’s through this challenging period. As interim CEO, he began implementing operational enhancements that contributed to the board’s decision to make his role permanent.

Challenges Facing Kohl’s

As Kohl’s continues to grapple with a difficult retail environment, several key issues persist. The company faces a notable decline in annual sales, coupled with increased competition from e-commerce players and large retailers. Strategic initiatives under Bender’s leadership are critical for addressing these challenges while striving for profitability and better customer engagement.

Market Response

Investor sentiment regarding Kohl’s appears cautious as reflected in the current trading price of the stock. The $15.73 per share price as of November 25, 2025, shows a market uncertain about the retailer’s recovery amidst ongoing restructuring efforts.

Conclusion

Kohl’s appointment of Michael Bender as CEO represents both a new direction for the company and a continued commitment to overcoming significant challenges in the retail landscape. As consumers increasingly shift toward online shopping, the need for traditional retailers to innovate and adapt becomes essential. Supporting local businesses and being engaged in the economic future of Indianapolis and beyond is crucial as many enterprises navigate similar transitions.