Destination Maternity inks new CEO

Moorestown-based Destination Maternity Corp. announced Wednesday it has appointed Marla A. Ryan its new CEO, effective immediately.

Ryan is replacing Melissa Payner-Gregor, who served as the company’s interim CEO since January and director of the company since August 2009. Payner-Gregor is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities.

“I am honored to take on the leadership of Destination Maternity and its iconic brand portfolio including Motherhood and A Pea in the Pod,” Ryan said. “It is an exciting time for the company as we embark on important efforts to unlock Destination Maternity’s full potential, with a focus on performance and improving shareholder value. I look forward to working closely with the board and all our employees to implement a comprehensive and attainable business plan geared toward accelerating revenue growth, rationalizing expenses and improving our profitability.”

Ryan has more than 25 years of experience in branded apparel and retail. She is the founder and CEO of Lola Advisors LLC, a business consultancy for the apparel, beaty and wellness sector. Prior to founding Lola Advisors, she was at Lands’ End from 2009 to 2018, most recently serving as senior vice president of retail. Before that, she held roles at J. Crew Inc. including vice president of Crewcuts. Prior to that, she was in various merchandising roles at Brooks Brothers, American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch and The Gap Inc.

“The entire board is confident in Marla’s experience and ability, and will work closely with her to drive growth, increase sales and help return the Company to its historic success and profitability. We believe that Marla is the ideal leader to drive immediate change at Destination Maternity,” said Anne-Charlotte Windal, the newly-appointed independent chair of the board of directors.