FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Vera Bradley, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRA) has announced significant leadership changes as part of its ongoing transformation efforts. Effective July 7, 2025, Ian Bickley will assume the newly created role of Executive Chairman, providing interim executive leadership and chairing the Board of Directors during the search for a new Chief Executive Officer. This transition follows the planned departure of current CEO Jacqueline Ardrey, who will remain with the company through the end of July to facilitate a smooth handover.
Bickley brings extensive experience in the retail industry, having held various executive positions at Coach, including President of the International Group. He also served as Interim CEO of The Body Shop, where he oversaw a successful sale of the company. In addition to his new role at Vera Bradley, Bickley serves on the boards of Crocs and Brilliant Earth.
As part of the leadership restructuring, Robert Hall will step down as Chairman of the Board but will continue to serve as a Director. The company has also established a new Strategy and Transformation Committee, co-led by Bickley and Director Andrew Meslow, former CEO of Bath & Body Works and L Brands. Meslow will assume the role of Lead Independent Director.
In addition to the changes at the executive chairman level, Vera Bradley has appointed Martin “Marty” Layding as Chief Financial Officer, effective June 12, 2025. Layding succeeds Michael Schwindle, who will remain with the company until June 30 to ensure a smooth transition. Layding brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as divisional CFO for Tapestry’s Coach brand and held CFO roles at several private equity-backed firms, including Supreme Brand.
These leadership changes come as Vera Bradley continues its transformation initiative, Project Restoration, launched by Ardrey in 2022. The initiative aims to revamp the company’s business model and brand positioning. The newly formed Strategy and Transformation Committee will work closely with incoming leadership to shape the company’s strategic direction and future growth initiatives.
The company reported a net loss from continuing operations of $18.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, compared to a net loss of $7.6 million in the prior year period. Due to the executive and board changes, as well as significant uncertainty surrounding the consumer environment, Vera Bradley has suspended forward guidance to allow the new team time to provide input on future strategic and financial expectations.
As Vera Bradley navigates this period of transition, the company remains committed to its transformation efforts and is focused on refining its strategy to drive operational efficiencies and improve profitability. The board’s proactive approach in appointing experienced leaders like Bickley and Layding underscores its dedication to steering the company toward a more sustainable and competitive future.
