Why Ashley Buchanan Was Removed as Kohl’s CEO – Is Chandra Holt the Next in Line?

Ashley Buchanan is out as Kohl’s CEO after a major leadership shakeup. Could Chandra Holt be taking over next? Get all the latest updates and what it means for the future of Kohl’s.
Why Ashley Buchanan Was Removed as Kohl’s CEO – Is Chandra Holt the Next in Line?

In the ever-changing world of retail, leadership moves can have a ripple effect on a brand’s direction, stock performance, and customer trust. One of the most talked-about developments in recent weeks has been the status of Ashley Buchanan, the now-former CEO of Kohl’s. Rumors swirled, headlines speculated, and now the dust is starting to settle.

So, what really happened to the Kohl’s CEO, and what role does Chandra Holt play in the future of the company?


Who Is Ashley Buchanan?

Ashley Buchanan stepped into the role of CEO at Kohl’s in early 2020, right before the pandemic reshaped global retail. A former Walmart executive, Buchanan was known for his digital transformation strategies and customer-focused initiatives. His vision was to modernize Kohl’s, focusing heavily on e-commerce, strategic partnerships (like Sephora inside Kohl’s), and a refreshed brand identity.

For a time, it worked. Kohl’s showed signs of a turnaround, gaining attention for its hybrid retail model. But as consumer spending patterns shifted again in late 2023 and early 2024, Kohl’s began to face renewed pressure from investors and competitors.


Was Ashley Buchanan Fired?

While the company hasn’t publicly used the word “fired,” reports confirm that Ashley Buchanan has officially stepped down as CEO of Kohl’s. Sources close to the matter suggest that internal boardroom tensions and unmet performance benchmarks led to his departure.

This kind of leadership change isn’t uncommon in retail, especially as shareholders demand faster adaptation to market trends. Still, for Buchanan, the exit marks a significant shift after nearly five years at the helm.


Who Is Chandra Holt — and Is She Taking Over?

The name Chandra Holt has been circulating widely in retail and corporate circles. Holt is a well-respected retail executive, previously serving in leadership roles at Walmart, Sam’s Club, and more recently as CEO of Conn’s HomePlus.

Industry insiders speculate that Chandra Holt could be in line to take over as the next CEO of Kohl’s. While Kohl’s hasn’t made an official announcement at the time of writing, Holt's experience and sharp operational mindset make her a logical choice.

If appointed, Holt would face a tall order: revitalizing store traffic, energizing the brand, and continuing to drive digital growth.


What This Means for the Future of Kohl’s

Whether Ashley Buchanan was fired or chose to step down, the leadership shift sends a clear message—Kohl’s is ready for a new chapter. As the retail industry continues to evolve post-pandemic, the brand needs to innovate faster and connect with a younger, tech-savvy demographic.

The next CEO—possibly Chandra Holt—will likely be tasked with accelerating that transformation while keeping longtime customers engaged.


Final Thoughts

Leadership changes are always a turning point for major brands. As the Kohl’s CEO news unfolds, all eyes will be on the company’s next move. Whether you're a loyal Kohl’s shopper or an investor watching from the sidelines, one thing is certain: the decisions made now will shape the future of one of America’s most iconic retail chains.

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