T. Robert Bell named Snr VP, Store Ops for the Disney Store

T. Robert Bell Named Senior Vice President, Store Operations, The Disney Store - North America

T. Robert Bell IV will join The Disney Store - North America as senior vice president of store operations, it was announced by Doug Murphy, senior vice president and general manager of The Disney Store - North America.

Bell will oversee store operations for 513 Disney Stores throughout the United States and Canada.

Bell is a 25-year veteran of operations management for major and specialty retailers. He joins Disney from Havoc Publishing, a San Diego-based manufacturer of gift, photo and book products, where he served as president and CEO. Bell's retail background includes 10 years with Sears, Roebuck and Co. Additionally, he held various key roles at Gap Inc. including vice president of human resources, vice president of operations and vice president of stores and operations for Gap Kids, where he oversaw the retailer's growth from 60 to 250 stores. He then spent seven years as president and CEO of Sweet Factory, growing the start-up business to a dominant chain of candy stores.

"Bob is not only a talented store operator, but also a seasoned senior executive who has both re-invented and expanded retail businesses," Murphy said. "The Disney Store will benefit from his excellent experience and proven creativity."

Bell received his BA in political science from Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania. He is married with two sons.

Founded in 1987, The Disney Store has more than 700 locations in 10 countries around the world. High-profile stores opening this year include Harlem, New York, and Maihama, Japan.

--Posted June 2, 2000

Source: Company Press Release