Build-A-Bear names chief technology officer
Build-A-Bear on Monday named Dara Meath as its senior vice president, chief technology officer. Meath will lead the retailer’s technology team and work with key partners to support the company’s ongoing digital transformation.
Meath comes to Build-A-Bear from Conair, where she was the divisional chief information officer and leader of data, digital and e-commerce. Meath previously was the vice president of information technology at The Camuto Group.
Meath will also be a member of the retailer’s senior leadership committee and will report to the company’s chief financial officer, Voin Todorovic.
"This hiring demonstrates our continued focus to advance our digital capabilities, which have been a fundamental part of our business success contributing to record-setting profitability in 2021 and thus far in 2022,” Todorovic said in a statement.
The same day of Meath’s appointment announcement, Build-A-Bear also raised its financial guidance. The company expects its fiscal 2022 results to deliver the highest profitability in its 25-year history.
Build-A-Bear has recently focused on advancing its digital efforts. In September, the company redesigned its website with improved checkout, payment and product visualization features. In December, it launched a virtual community space, Build-A-Bear Tycoon, on Roblox.
“We are confident that the digital transformation of our company is providing benefits throughout our organization and to our business model,” CEO Sharon John said on a Q3 earnings call with analysts. “Today's consumers want to engage with brands that provide experiences and emotional connection, when they want, where they want and for whatever they want. Optimizing this omnichannel consumer dynamic requires multiple shopping channels and intelligent marketing engagements that elevates the offerings and services of these diverse consumer segments and their needs. As such, we continue to invest in digital technology to expand, develop and refine these capabilities.”
Gloss