Gap Inc. has appointed Donald Kohler as Global Brand President and Chief Executive Officer of Banana Republic, marking a major leadership move as the retailer accelerates its premium lifestyle positioning and global growth ambitions.
Kohler will officially join the brand in July 2026 and will be based in San Francisco, according to a recent company announcement by Gap Inc.
The appointment represents a homecoming for Kohler, who began his retail career at Gap Inc. and spent more than a decade in merchandising leadership roles across Gap, GapKids and babyGap before moving on to senior positions at global fashion houses including Calvin Klein owner PVH Corp., Burberry, Ferragamo and Diesel.
Most recently, Kohler served as Chief Executive Officer, PVH Americas, overseeing brands including Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger along with regional retail, e-commerce, wholesale and licensing operations.
Commenting on the appointment, Richard Dickson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Gap Inc., said Kohler brings “deep global expertise” and a strong track record of revitalizing brands through product storytelling, operational discipline and customer-centric growth strategies.
Dickson added that Kohler’s combination of “operational excellence and brand building” makes him well positioned to lead Banana Republic’s “next chapter” as the company continues building momentum around its “modern explorer” identity.
Donald Kohler, incoming Global Brand President and Chief Executive Officer, Banana Republic, described the move as “deeply meaningful,” noting that Banana Republic possesses “extraordinary heritage” and significant opportunity to connect with modern consumers through elevated products, immersive storytelling and a cohesive customer journey.
Founded in 1978 and acquired by Gap Inc. in 1983, Banana Republic has evolved from its original safari-inspired concept into an upscale global apparel and lifestyle retailer. The brand today operates across online platforms and company-owned and franchise stores worldwide.
The leadership appointment comes as Banana Republic continues refining its premium positioning after several years of brand transformation efforts. Industry observers say the company has recently focused on strengthening its explorer-inspired identity, improving merchandising clarity and elevating customer experiences across physical and digital channels.
Under Kohler’s leadership, the company said Banana Republic will continue enhancing its product architecture, deepening storytelling, upgrading in-store and digital experiences, and driving disciplined execution globally, initiatives likely to support future international and franchise expansion opportunities.
