Gerald W. Evans Jr., CEO of HanesBrands, has announced plans to retire at the end of the current fiscal year, which ends January 2, 2021. The Hanes board of directors has begun a search process to identify the company’s next CEO with the assistance of Russell Reynolds Associates, an independent executive search firm. The board expects to consider both internal and external candidates. HanesBrands participates in the promotional products industry as suppliers Hanes/Champion/ComfortWash (PPAI 191138, S10) and Alternative Apparel (PPAI 217134, S5).

“Gerald has been an invaluable member of the Hanes team during his 36 years of dedicated service,” says Ronald L. Nelson, chairman of the Hanes board of directors. “Under his leadership, the company has expanded its geographic footprint, broadened its portfolio of premium brand offerings, and pioneered product, process and supply-chain innovation, helping transform Hanes into the world’s largest everyday basic apparel company. We thank Gerald and appreciate his willingness to continue with the company through year-end to ensure a seamless transition of leadership.”

Evans, 60, joined Hanes in 1983 and since being appointed CEO in 2016, has overseen strategy focused on cash generation, channel and geographic diversification, omnichannel expansion, organic sales growth, and innovation leveraging brand-building and the company’s global supply chain.

“After more than three-and-a-half decades at Hanes, I am confident that now is the right time for the company to transition to its next generation of leadership,” Evans says. “Thanks to our team of hard-working employees around the world, we have created a strong foundation for sustainable success that is rooted in our customer-centric approach, agile business model and commitment to continuous improvement. I am confident that Hanes is well-positioned to achieve its full potential and am pleased to work alongside the rest of the Board and management team to provide a smooth handoff to our next CEO.”