Williams-Sonoma streamlines management as part of growth strategy

As part of its continued growth strategy, Williams-Sonoma made several organizational changes to its management team.

Chief marketing officer Pat Connolly has been elevated to chief strategy and business development officer. Connolly will work closely with senior management to refine the company’s long-term strategy, including the development of new businesses, and the evaluation and execution of acquisitions and alliances that can provide significant growth. 

“Pat has devoted the past 35 years to building the company’s multichannel strategy and has been a driving force in our e-commerce growth,” said president and CEO Laura Alber.

Connolly will oversee all corporate communications, including continuing to partner with CFO Julie Whalen on investor relations activities. 

“I am excited to work with our outstanding leadership team to identify and capitalize on opportunities that can further enhance shareholder value,” said Connolly. 

Chief information officer John Strain has been promoted to the position of chief digital and technology officer. Strain will assume additional responsibility for the company’s digital and direct marketing efforts.

“John’s proven track record as CIO during the past eight years, and his almost two decades of experience in e-commerce technology will enable us to further integrate the rapid developments in digital technology into every aspect of our business,” Alber said.

Felix Carbullido has been promoted to the position of chief marketing officer, succeeding Connolly and reporting to Strain.

“Felix brings a broad range of experiences across merchandising, e-commerce, and executive management to this position. Felix is a proven leader, under whom the Pottery Barn direct business has become one of the largest and most profitable in the U.S. In his new position, Felix will oversee the marketing across all our brands,” said Strain. 

Dean Miller has been promoted to the position of COO.

“During the past 14 years, Dean has added significant value to the company in a number of positions of increasing responsibility. Most recently, as chief supply chain officer, Dean led the company’s vertical integration efforts in sourcing, the development of its domestic upholstered manufacturing operations, its global logistics network, and the regionalization of the company’s U.S. distribution network. This promotion recognizes the significant contributions that Dean has made, and the importance of all aspects of our supply chain in providing the best quality service to our customers,” said Alber.