Virginia C. Drosos is leaving her post as CEO and member of the board of directors of retail giant Signet Jewelers Ltd after 12 years with the company.

JK Symancyk will succeed Drosos as CEO when she officially retires on November 4. She will continue as an advisor through the end of the company's fiscal year to support a smooth transition, the company said.

Helen McCluskey, chair of Signet's board of directors, said, “As CEO, Gina led Signet in its transformation journey with strategic clarity, disciplined decision-making and a purpose-driven mindset.”

Under Drosos’ leadership, Signet has expanded its market share by nearly 50 per cent and significantly grew its digital presence in the last five years, added McCluskey.

It was also during her tenure as CEO that e-commerce sales increased fourfold, transforming the company's financial results, reducing gross debt outstanding by over 90 per cent, nearly doubling liquidity, and expanding adjusted operating margin more than 70 per cent. 

Drosos remarked, “I am proud of and thankful for our team and partners. Together, we have delivered strong results and transformed Signet into a purpose-inspired and modern jewellery industry leader – creating a truly connected commerce shopping experience, a strong financial platform, and a diverse, inclusive and winning culture.”

Symancyk, for his part, brings over 30 years of retail industry experience across a diverse range of categories and has spent his career in large-scale organisations. He most recently served for six years as CEO of PetSmart, Inc, overseeing a growth plan and accelerating the company’s leadership through proprietary brand development, services expansion, loyalty programme creation and digital and supply chain capabilities enhancements. 

Diamond jewellery retailer Signet includes Kay Jewelers, Zales, Jared and Banter by Piercing Pagoda.