American Eagle Outfitters CEO steps down

Teen retailer American Eagle Outfitters (AEO) has announced that Jay L. Schottenstein, executive chairman of the

board will serve as interim Chief Executive Office, effective immediately.

He will temporarily take over as CEO while the company continues to search for a permanent successor for AEO's former Chief Executive Officer, Robert Hanson, who is leaving the company. Hanson joined the company in early 2012, after previously working for Levi Strauss & Co, where he was global president of Levi's.

Schottenstein joined the company back in 1992 as company chairman, and previously held the role of CEO from March 1992 to December 2002. Roger S, Markfield, executive creative director and vice chairman at AEO has agreed to postpone his retirement, which was set to occur end of this month, and continue in his current role to the benefit of the company. Markfield joined AEO in 1993 and has steered the company's creative vision, overseeing its transformation to a lifestyle apparel brand.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Robert for his contributions during his tenure and wish him well in his future endeavors. I look forward to working closely with Roger and our talented team to capitalize on the significant potential of our brands and to position the Company for growth and long-term success,” commented Jay Schottenstein.