Ralph Lauren announces leadership changes

Jackwyn Nemerov, currently Executive Vice President (EVP), will become President and COO. Christopher Peterson, currently Senior Vice President (SVP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), will become Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) in addition to his role as CFO.

The Office of the Chairman is being created to enhance the Company’s ability to support the growth of the business in an increasingly complex global environment and capitalize on new business opportunities. Mr. Farah, Ms. Nemerov and Mr. Peterson will report directly to Mr. Lauren. The changes will be effective as of November 1, 2013, allowing for a smooth transition period.

“This is the right team to take this Company forward and the right time to be making these changes,” said Ralph Lauren. “I chose Jacki and Chris to work alongside me because their outstanding leadership skills, unrelenting focus on performance and broad, global experience will improve our ability to take advantage of the tremendous opportunities ahead.

Jacki is a deeply experienced merchant and business leader, with profound knowledge of all facets of this Company and brand. Chris is a world-class executive who has impressed me immensely with his ability to rapidly assimilate into Ralph Lauren and command the respect of the organization. They will work with Roger and me as partners to shape the future of the Company.

“Over the past thirteen years, Roger has played a critical role in driving the Company forward and has presided over an unprecedented era of growth and accomplishment,” added Mr. Lauren. “His leadership, strategic guidance and friendship have been invaluable to me and the entire Company, and his impact on the Company has been extraordinary. Roger’s transition to Executive Vice Chairman will allow him to focus more specifically on business development and strategic initiatives while Jacki and Chris work with me to run the day-to-day business.”

In his new role, which reduces his time commitment to the business, Mr. Farah will be responsible for engaging in strategic projects and business development, as well as advising the Chairman and mentoring and counseling the management team. Mr. Farah joined Ralph Lauren from Venator Group, Inc. in 2000, where he served as Chairman and CEO from 1994 to 2000, and was previously President and COO of Macy’s Inc. and Chairman and CEO of Federated Merchandising Services and Rich’s Department Stores, respectively. Mr. Farah joined the Company’s Board of Directors in 2000.