Kohl’s adds former L Brands exec to board

Kohl’s announced on Wednesday that Wendy Arlin has joined its board of directors an independent director.

Arlin brings to the U.S. retailer more than three decades of experience in corporate finance, financial reporting, oversight and accounting, with expertise in the consumer industry.

During her career, she held leadership roles at L Brands, Inc. for nearly 20 years and most recently served as executive vice president and CFO of Bath & Body Works, Inc. from 2021 through her July 2023 retirement.

Prior to that, Arlin served as senior vice president, finance and corporate controller of L Brands, where she led the corporate finance, financial reporting, accounting and financial shared services functions from 2005 to 2021.

Arlin is a certified public accountant, and prior to joining L Brands, she spent 12 years at KPMG in the audit practice and ultimately held the position of partner in charge of the central Ohio consumer and industrial/information, communications and entertainment business practices.

In addition to the Kohl’s board, the executive also serves as a director of The Wendy’s Company, where she serves on the audit committee, and WK Kellogg Co. where she serves on the compensation and talent committee and is chair of the audit committee.

“We are pleased to welcome Wendy to the Board,” said board chair Peter Boneparth. “Her deep financial, accounting and industry experience adds to the existing strength of the Board. Wendy is an excellent addition to our Board as we continue to focus on supporting the company’s strategic growth plan and delivering shareholder value.”

Arlin’s appointment is part of the company’s ongoing board refreshment process, which continues to bring in relevant and experienced leaders, said the retailer.

“As a retail veteran, I’m excited to join Kohl’s board of directors. This is a brand and business that I deeply respect and I’m eager to serve the company and our shareholders during this dynamic time in the retail industry,” said Arlin.

“I appreciate the warm welcome from the Board and I look forward to working with the directors and the Kohl’s leadership team in the years ahead.”