Pharmaca names new CEO

BOULDER, Colo. - Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy on Monday named Richard Willis the company's president and CEO. Willis will also serve as a director of the company.

 

"After a comprehensive search process, the board is pleased to have found such an experienced and talented individual to assume the leadership of Pharmaca," stated Peter Cornetta, lead director and managing general partner of Highland Consumer Partners. "Richard has a strong track record of creating value for shareholders. This combined with his retail and distribution industry knowledge makes Richard uniquely qualified to successfully lead Pharmaca into the future," he said. "Richard has been a successful executive in a number of private-equity backed situations and he is a great fit with each of the critical leadership competencies that we evaluated as part of our selection process."

 

"I am excited for the opportunity to lead this outstanding senior management team and group of hard-working, talented employees," said Willis. "I look forward to a new chapter of growth for Pharmaca. The company's exceptional reputation of providing high-levels of customer service while creating a best-in-class product offering and store environment has provided it with a strong market position."

 

Willis, 56, has more than 25 years of executive experience in retail, distribution and publishing. He most recently served as the president and CEO of SpeedCommerce. He previously served as the executive chairman of Charlotte Russe, and CEO for a number of companies including Baker & Taylor Corporation, Troll Communications and Bell Sports. 

 

His prior experience also includes service as the chief financial officer of several magazine companies, including Petersen Publishing, which he helped take public. 

 

Willis holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and a master's degree in business administration from Baylor University, where he also serves currently as chairman of the Board of Regents.