Claire's Appoints President, North America

Claire's Appoints President, North America
March 28, 2008

Pembroke Pines, Fla.-based Claire's Stores Inc., a specialty retailer offering value-priced jewelry and accessories, has named John A. Zimmermann as president, North America. Zimmermann will lead the Claire's and Icing North American businesses, and has direct responsibility for merchandising and operations of more than 2,100 stores in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. He will participate as a key leader within the corporate senior management team, helping to establish future global direction. John succeeds Lisa LaFosse, who served Claire's for 17-plus years. LaFosse is leaving the company to spend more time with her family and to pursue other opportunities. Zimmermann spent the last six years with the Zale Corp., most recently serving as corporate group president and president, Zale North America. Zimmermann has also held positions with companies such as Federated Department Stores, The Children's Place, Bon Marche, Contempo Casuals and Bradlees, among others. Claire's operates 3,038 stores across the world, and also franchises 167 stores.