Michael Lewis

OfficeMax has named a new executive to lead its merchandising initiatives, including category management, strategic product planning, global sourcing, private label expansion and cost of goods sold. The company anounced that Ronald Lalla has been named executive vice president, chief merchandising officer, effective Monday, March 19. Lalla will report to Michael Lewis, executive vice president, president retail. "Ron is a strategic merchant with a strong financial acumen who will focus on driving disciplined processes to enhance the customer experience and improve margins," said Ravi Saligram, president and CEO of OfficeMax.

Naperville, Ill. -- OfficeMax said Friday that its executive VP and chief merchandising office Ryan Vero has resigned, effective Dec. 2. Michael Lewis, executive VP and president of retail, will continue to provide oversight to the marketing and merchandising teams, according to OfficeMax. OfficeMax said it is initiating a search for a chief merchandising officer immediately.