New York & Company, a leading specialty retailer of women’s fashion that currently operates 581 stores in 43 states, has announced the appointment of Michele Parsons to Executive Vice President, Merchandising. Ms. Parsons will report to Greg Scott, President, and she will serve on the company’s Executive Committee. Ms. Parsons will join the company in the beginning of January 2011.

New York & Company on Broadway, NY

Ms. Parsons is a strategic merchandising executive with 25 years of experience in multi-channel retail businesses. She joins New York & Company from Coach where she held the position of Vice President Merchandising Retail North America. Prior to Coach, Ms. Parsons served as President and Chief Merchandising Officer of Liz Claiborne Apparel. She also held senior merchandising roles with Tommy Hilfiger and J. Crew Group. Earlier in her career, Ms. Parsons held various merchandising positions with Victoria’s Secret, a division of Limited Brands, and Ann Taylor.