US-based fashion retailer Gap has appointed Donald Kohler as global brand president and CEO of Banana Republic.
He is to begin the San Francisco-based role in July 2026.
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In his new position, Kohler will lead the ongoing development of Banana Republic’s product architecture, brand storytelling, and customer experience across physical and digital channels worldwide.
Kohler said: “Banana Republic has extraordinary heritage and a powerful opportunity to inspire today’s consumer through elevated product, immersive storytelling, and a cohesive customer journey.
“I believe great brands are built by great teams, and I look forward to getting to know the Banana Republic team and building what’s next together.”
Kohler brings more than three decades of experience across luxury, premium and speciality retail.
He joins from PVH, where he held the position of CEO of PVH Americas, overseeing Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and the group’s regional operations spanning retail, e-commerce, wholesale and licensing.
Gap CEO Richard Dickson said: “Donald is a product-driven leader with deep global expertise and an extraordinary track record of revitalising brands to new relevance with clarity, discipline, and storytelling that connects with customers to drive growth.”
The appointment comes as Gap continues to pursue international growth.
In March, the company announced plans to open 50 new stores across mainland China this year, targeting cities from tier-one to tier-three.
Gap’s China business is operated by Baozun, which took over the brand’s operations in the country in late 2022 and has since extended the store network.
Under the arrangement, Baozun manages the Gap brand in China across both brick-and-mortar retail and e-commerce.
