The Home Depot Announces New Executive Leadership Team for Pro Business and Human Resources

Home Depot Strengthens Leadership with New Appointments

In a significant shift within its executive team, The Home Depot®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, has announced the appointment of Michael Rowe as the Executive Vice President (EVP) of Pro, effective immediately. In addition, Stephanie Smith has been promoted to EVP of Human Resources, succeeding Tim Hourigan, who will retire after nearly 23 years of dedicated service.

Michael Rowe's New Role

Michael Rowe is stepping into a pivotal role where he will oversee The Home Depot's strategy to enhance its business with professional customers. His responsibilities will include driving the company's initiatives to improve delivery capabilities, strengthening the sales force, leveraging technology, and enhancing customer relationship management systems.

Before this new position, Rowe served as the President of The Home Depot Canada. With 19 years of experience at The Home Depot, his tenure included various leadership roles within the Canadian division, where he notably improved services for professional clients. His innovative strategies led to unprecedented growth in the Canadian Pro customer market during his leadership.

Ted Decker, President and CEO of The Home Depot, expressed confidence in Rowe's ability to lead the Pro segment, emphasizing the unique position the company holds in expanding its Pro ecosystem. “Mike has demonstrated an extraordinary capability to foster growth and innovation within the business, making him the ideal candidate to lead us into the next phase of our Pro growth strategy,” he stated.

Stephanie Smith Takes Charge of Human Resources

Meanwhile, Stephanie Smith's appointment as EVP of Human Resources marks a new chapter for The Home Depot's workplace environment. With a focus on nurturing the culture and experience of over 470,000 associates, her role will encompass leadership development, employee engagement, and reinforcing the company’s unique culture and values. Previously, she served as the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, responsible for everything from inventory management to transportation and analytics.

Decker acknowledged Smith’s extensive experience within the company, noting that her diverse background in operations and her collaborative nature contributed to improved team dynamics and employee performance. “Stephanie has been a key player in our success over the last 22 years, and I look forward to her vision bringing fresh perspectives to our HR strategy,” he added.

Company Outlook

As The Home Depot continues to expand its influence in home improvement retail, these leadership changes reflect a robust commitment to both its professional customer base and its associates. The company is signaling a future poised for innovation, with a dedicated focus on enhancing capabilities across both customer- and employee-facing functions.

With operations that span over 2,347 retail stores and more than 470,000 associates globally, The Home Depot remains a pivotal player in the industry. As Rowe and Smith assume their new roles, the company is set to further solidify its status as a leader in the home improvement sector, ensuring that both professionals and employees feel valued and empowered in their contributions.

Conclusion

These strategic appointments illustrate The Home Depot's commitment to strategic growth and employee engagement. With a strong focus on nurturing talent and providing exceptional service to professional customers, the company is well-positioned to embark on a transformative journey under the guidance of its seasoned new executives.