First ‘Outsider’ to Run L.L. Bean in 103 Year History

L.L. Bean said today (Tuesday) that they have picked a new CEO and President. Stephen Smith was Walmart's chief marketing and merchandising officer in China. He has never worked at Beans and is not a family member. That's a first for L.L. Bean. 

He is replacing Chris McCormick, who was the President and CEO from 2001 and will retire early next year.

Stephen Smith, who is only 45, will be the fourth president in L.L. Bean history, and the first 'outsider' to lead the company. He has a lot of background in the retail industry and customer service - which Beans is known for.

Shawn Gorman, L.L. Bean’s chairman of the board, says that he is perfect for the job.

Smith has some Maine ties. He lived in Maine from 1997-2003 when he worked in marketing. He says he is a huge outdoors guy. ” I do it all,” he said in a Press Herald interview Tuesday. “It’s been part of my life forever.”

He'll start the new job in January after moving back to Maine from China. His two daughters 15 and 13, were born in Maine when he lived in Cape Elizabeth.

I wish him only the best. He has big shoes to fill (actually Bean Boots). L.L. Bean is a loved institution. The family is loved and respected. Employees love their jobs, customers love their Beans, Maine loves this place...good luck!