Levi Strauss & Co has named Michelle Gass as president and CEO, effective January 29 next year, replacing Chip Bergh.

Bergh is set to retire on April 26 next year. He has been elected to serve as executive vice chair of the board until his retirement date, after which he will transition to a senior advisor role until the end of fiscal FY24.

“It has been an incredible privilege to lead this great company as CEO for the last 12 years. I want to especially thank my team, the board of directors and the family shareholders for all their support through the years,” said Bergh.

“While I’ve known Michelle for more than a decade, my time working closely with her this past year has given me great confidence that her experience, track record of innovation and impact, and passion for the business will position the company for sustainable, profitable growth and significant shareholder and stakeholder value creation.”

Gass has been the president of Levi Strauss & Co since January this year. Before that, she held senior positions at Kohl’s and Starbucks.

“I am honored to be stepping in to lead this iconic brand and company, one that I have deeply admired and respected for many years. Levi’s is more than a denim icon; it’s part of our cultural fabric and an enduring symbol of quality, innovation and progress,” said Gass.

“I am incredibly excited to lead our amazing team and to realize our ambition of becoming a world-class direct-to-consumer retailer.”