Kecia Steelman Named CEO of Ulta Beauty, Outlines Growth Vision
Steelman, a long-time company leader, steps into the role with plans for international expansion and strategic investments in wellness and personalization.
- Kecia Steelman has been appointed CEO and president of Ulta Beauty, effective immediately, succeeding Dave Kimbell, who is retiring after 11 years with the company.
- Steelman, previously Ulta's president and COO, has been with the company since 2014 and played a key role in shaping its current growth strategy.
- Her leadership will focus on expanding Ulta's U.S. store footprint, entering the international market with a 2025 launch in Mexico, and enhancing wellness and personalization offerings.
- Steelman emphasized continuity in the company's strategic direction, which she helped craft, while aiming to address challenges from competitors like Sephora and Amazon.
- Ulta forecasts strong fourth-quarter results, buoyed by holiday sales, and plans significant investments in advertising, brand-building, and loyalty program enhancements in 2025.