Boot Barn CEO Jim Conroy Steps Down for Top Job at Ross, John Hazen Named Interim CEO
Stephen Garner
Senior Editor
There’s a new top dog at Boot Barn.
According to the Irvine, Calif.-based footwear company, its current president and chief executive officer Jim Conroy plans to step down effective Nov. 22.
Conroy, 54, is leaving the retailer to become CEO of Ross Stores, effective Feb. 2, 2025. He succeeds Barbara Rentler, who has served at CEO at the off-price retailer for the last 10 years.
As for Conroy, he has served as president and CEO of Boot Barn since 2012. Prior to joining Boot Barn, Conroy served in various executive roles at Claire’s Stores, Inc. from 2007 to 2012, including chief operating officer and interim co-CEO in 2012 and president from 2009 to 2012.
“After 12 incredible years, I am filled with immense gratitude for this company and the extraordinary people who have been by my side throughout this journey,” Conroy said in a statement. “Together, we’ve built something truly special, and I will forever cherish the shared successes, challenges, and memories we created. Thank you for your trust, dedication, and passion—I leave with a heart full of pride and appreciation for every one of you.”
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In his place, John Hazen, the company’s current chief digital officer, will assume the role of interim CEO, effective Nov. 22. Hazen joined the company in 2018 with responsibility for e-commerce, marketing, and the customer experience. Prior to joining Boot Barn, Hazen served in leadership positions at Ring, True Religion, Kellwood, Nike and Fox Racing.
Additionally, Peter Starrett, the company’s current chairman of the board of directors, will assume the role of executive chairman, effective Nov. 22.
“John Hazen is very highly regarded within the Boot Barn organization and has a diverse background that includes brand building, digital, and store roles,” Starrett said. “He has a strong track record of growing sales and profits both at Boot Barn and prior to joining the company.
Starrett also noted that Hazen has also been “extremely instrumental” in advancing Boot Barn’s customer-facing technology capabilities including many industry-leading applications of artificial intelligence. “I am confident in his ability to step into the role as interim CEO,” Starrett added. “Personally, I am looking forward to providing oversight and mentorship as executive chairman while the board conducts an internal and external search before making a permanent decision on our next CEO.”
Hazen commented, “I am deeply honored to step into this role and incredibly grateful to Jim for his visionary leadership and unwavering support. I also want to express my heartfelt thanks to the Board for their trust and to every member of this incredible team for their dedication that makes this company exceptional. Together, we will continue building on the strong foundation that we have created and will move forward with confidence, tenacity, and purpose.”
