Kirkland’s has named James Schisler as its new chief operating officer, effective immediately, the company disclosed in a Friday SEC filing.
Schisler brings extensive retail experience, having recently served as CEO of Innata Brand Strategy and previously holding leadership roles at Richer Poorer, UpWest, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Express.
His appointment comes as Kirkland’s continues its leadership reshuffle and strategic alignment with Beyond, which announced in May it would acquire and license back Kirkland’s intellectual property.
Under the deal, Beyond also has the right to nominate up to three board directors.
As part of that agreement, Beyond has nominated former Kirkland’s CEO Steve Woodward and former Camping World COO Tamara Ward to the board.
At the same time, long-standing directors Susan Lanigan and Charlie Pleas will not seek reelection.
The board has undergone significant changes in the past year, including the departure of two members in June 2024 and a size reduction from eight to six seats.
Schisler will earn a $325,000 base salary with a target bonus of 60%.
The COO role has been vacant since 2020, when Michael Cairnes departed and former CEO Woodward took on operational oversight.
Beyond’s deepening involvement reflects its growing stake in the home retailer, with rights to acquire up to 65% of Kirkland’s common stock.
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