Ulta Beauty Announces New CEO and Boosts Its Outlook

Leadership Transition - Ulta Beauty CEO Dave Kimbell is retiring after 11 years, effective immediately [1][4] - Kimbell will remain as an advisor through June 28 [1] - Chief Operating Officer Kecia Steelman will succeed Kimbell as CEO [1][4] Strategic Direction - Steelman played a key role in developing Ulta's refreshed strategic framework [2] - Ulta's strategic roadmap includes opening 200 net new stores by 2028 [2] - The company aims to increase loyalty program membership to 50 million members by 2028 [2] Financial Performance - Ulta raised its fourth-quarter outlook, expecting comparable sales to increase modestly [3] - Operating margin is projected to exceed the high end of the previously estimated range of 11.6% to 12.4% [3][4] - Fourth-quarter results will be reported on March 13 [3] Market Reaction - Ulta's shares rose approximately 2% in extended trading following the announcements [3]