SAN FRANCISCO—Williams-Sonoma, Inc. has hired Ronald Young as SVP, global. Young will grow the portfolio of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brands outside the United States. The announcement was made by Laura Alber, president and CEO, Williams-Sonoma, Inc.

“Global expansion is one of our most important initiatives, and I'm pleased to have Ron Young, with his more than 30 years experience in global markets, leading our continued growth,” said Alber. “Ron's deep understanding of the global retail landscape, and his financial discipline are the ideal combination of skills and experience to lead our global strategy.”

Reporting directly to Alber, Young will work in partnership with Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brand presidents at Pottery Barn, Williams-Sonoma and West Elm to grow each brand's global business. Alber said Young will expand the network of company-owned stores, eCommerce sites and franchise partnerships worldwide.

“I'm thrilled to join Williams-Sonoma, Inc. as the company continues its global expansion,” commented Young. “I look forward to being part of the team bringing these iconic brands, with their exceptional products, unique experiences and world class service, to customers around the world.”

Young's extensive experience in global markets includes positions at Pepsi-Cola, Gap, Inc., Express, and most recently Children's Place.

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is a specialty retailer of high-quality products for the home. These products, representing eight distinct merchandise strategies—Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, PBteen, West Elm, Williams-Sonoma Home, Rejuvenation, and Mark and Graham—are marketed through e-commerce websites, direct mail catalogs and 589 stores. Williams-Sonoma, Inc. currently operates in the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, offers international shipping to customers worldwide, and has unaffiliated franchisees that operate stores in the Middle East and the Philippines.