Mahwah retail group names new head for its Justice chain of stores

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Ascena Retail Group Inc. announced Friday that its Justice division has a new CEO and president.The Mahwah-based specialty retailer said Brian Lynch, a veteran of the fashion and retail industries, has succeeded Michael Rayden as the head of the tween-focused clothing chain. Rayden, who had been CEO and president of the Justice unit, retired at the end of January.

“We are extremely pleased to have someone with Brian’s talent and experience assume leadership of Justice,” David Jaffe, CEO and president of Ascena, said in a prepared statement. “Justice sits atop this specialty market, and Brian is the right person to build upon that position.”

RELATED: CEO of Justice and Brothers tween apparel chains is retiring

Lynch had most recently been president of Ann Taylor Brand, Ascena said, and also served as an executive with ANN Inc ., Gap Inc., Learningsmith Inc. and The Walt Disney Co.

“I’m thrilled at the opportunity to work with the team at Justice that has been at the forefront of this market,” Lynch said in a statement. “It’s an important transitional time for Justice, and I look forward to joining a group that is poised to continue as an innovative leader in the fashion industry.”

Rayden also oversaw Ascena’s Brothers chain of stores prior to his retirement. The retailer announced in February that it was shuttering that line, however.

Other Ascena chains include Lane Bryant, Cacique, maurices, dressbarn and Catherines.

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