Jill Soltau is the chief executive officer of JCPenney and a member of the Board of Directors. She joined the Company in October 2018 and developed the Company's Plan for Renewal strategic initiatives focused on driving traffic, offering compelling merchandise, creating an engaging customer experience, fueling growth, and building a results-minded culture.
Soltau has over 30 years of experience in the retail industry, previously serving as president and CEO of JOANN Stores, Inc., the nation’s largest fabric and crafts retailer. Under her leadership there, she reinvigorated the brand and bolstered its market position through a consumer-centric approach that offered compelling assortments, helpful advice, and memorable experiences digitally shared with others.
Prior to JOANN Stores, Jill spent eight years at Shopko Stores. She joined the company in 2007 as senior vice president and general merchandise manager over apparel and accessories, and served as executive vice president and chief merchandising officer before being named president in 2013. While there, she played an integral role in the successful conversion of Shopko Hometown. Jill began her retail career with Carson Pirie Scott, and has held senior leadership positions in merchandising, planning, and private brand management at Sears Holdings Corporation and Kohl’s Corporation.
Soltau earned a Bachelor of Science degree in retail and business from the University of Wisconsin - Stout in Wisconsin. She serves on the Board of Directors for AutoZone, and is a member of 4-H Luminaries, an exclusive group of the most influential alumni across the nation who generate support for bringing 4-H programs to more youth.
