After 11 years with Ulta Beauty, Dave Kimbell will be stepping down from his role as CEO and departing from the company’s board of directors.
Kecia Steelman, who joined the board on January 6, will succeed Kimbell as the new CEO. Ulta Beauty Reveals CEO Transition as Steelman takes over leadership responsibilities at a critical juncture for the company.
“On behalf of the Board, we are grateful to Dave for his guidance, dedication, and integrity, and for the significant contributions he has made to Ulta Beauty,” said Lorna Nagler, Chair of Ulta Beauty’s Board of Directors. “Dave has demonstrated a deep commitment to unlocking the power of beauty for our guests and advancing Ulta Beauty’s market leadership. He has played a meaningful role in shaping Ulta Beauty into the company we are today, and we appreciate his continued service as an advisor during this transition.”
Kimbell, who became CEO of Ulta Beauty in 2021, had been with the company since 2014, serving in various executive roles. Reflecting on his tenure, Kimbell shared, “Serving as CEO of Ulta Beauty has been the highlight of my career, and I am proud to have led and worked alongside so many associates who are passionate about delivering great experiences for our guests.” He also expressed confidence in Steelman’s leadership, saying, “Kecia is a strategic leader with a proven record of driving operational excellence and creating exceptional guest experiences while fostering a caring and inclusive culture. I have every confidence she will expand Ulta Beauty’s leadership in beauty and wellness.”
Ulta Beauty Reveals CEO Transition, signaling a new phase in the company’s growth trajectory under Steelman’s leadership. Prior to becoming CEO, Steelman served as president and chief operating officer in 2023 and has held multiple executive roles at the company since 2014.
“Dave has been a supportive leader, mentor, and friend, and I am honored to become the next CEO of Ulta Beauty,” said Steelman. “Ulta Beauty is more than a beauty retailer – we are a destination that helps bring to life all the beautiful possibilities that lie within every guest and associate who walks through our doors.” Steelman also highlighted the company’s future plans, stating, “I am confident the strategic priorities we shared last fall will enable us to capture greater market share in beauty and wellness and deliver long-term profitable growth. I am excited to lead our outstanding teams as we unlock even greater advantages of our operating model, drive best-in-class execution, and position Ulta Beauty for our next chapter of growth as the beauty destination for a lifetime.”
In addition to the leadership announcement, Ulta Beauty revealed that it has raised its fourth-quarter outlook, driven by stronger-than-expected performance during the holiday season. Ulta Beauty Reveals CEO Transition as part of its efforts to maintain momentum and capitalize on its expanding market opportunities.
