Dave Kimbell, chief executive officer of Ulta Beauty, stepped down on Monday, surprising many industry insiders. Kecia Steelman, president and chief operating officer, will succeed him as president and CEO and will join the company’s board. Kimbell will serve as an adviser to the company through June 28.

Ulta Beauty forecasts a strong Q4 with modestly increasing comparable sales and higher-than-expected operating margins due to robust holiday demand. President Kecia Steelman will succeed retiring CEO Dave Kimbell,

Ulta Beauty (ULTA) has announced that chief executive officer (CEO) Dave Kimbell is retiring from the cosmetics company where he has worked for the

Ulta Beauty said on Monday Dave Kimbell will retire as CEO and will be succeeded by President and Chief Operating Officer Kecia Steelman. Kimbell is stepping down after 11 years with the company, and will serve as an adviser through June 28.

US retailer Ulta Beauty has promoted Kecia Steelman to president and CEO, effective immediately. She replaces Dave Kimbell, who is retiring after an 11-year tenure. He is also stepping down from the company’s board of directors, but will stay on as an advisor to Ulta Beauty through 28 June.

Kecia Steelman named President and Chief Executive Officer of Ulta Beauty. (Photo: Business Wire)

Ulta Beauty CEO Dave Kimbell will retire and Kecia Steelman, current President and COO, has been named as his successor.

Kecia Steelman succeeds Kimbell and his 11-year tenure.

This leadership change follows the retirement of Dave Kimbell, who has been with Ulta Beauty for eleven years.