Coldwater Creek names Bell as company's CFO

SANDPOINT — A key member of Coldwater Creek’s finance team will take the helm of the local retail company that is rebounding from the impact of a floundering economy.

 James A. Bell has been promoted to senior vice president and chief financial officer of the Sandpoint-based retailer that specializes in apparel, gifts, jewelry, and accessories, a spokesperson said.

Bell assumes these responsibilities from John E. Hayes III, who has been serving as interim chief financial officer since November 2009.  Hayes will continue as senior vice president, general counsel and secretary and has taken on the additional responsibility of directing Coldwater Creek’s human resources department, according to the announcement.

 Bell has been a key member of Coldwater Creek’s corporate finance team since joining the company less than a year ago, according to the announcement. He served most recently as vice president offinancial planning.

Prior to joining the company, Bell served as senior vice president, finance and planning for Harry & David Holdings, Inc. from 2007 to 2009, and for five years as senior director of finance for The GAP, Inc.

Bell earned a bachelor of science degree in economics from the U.S. Naval Academy and a master of business adminstration degree from the University of Maryland.

“We are pleased to welcome Jim Bell to the CFO role,” said Coldwater Creek Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dennis Pence.

“He has extensive knowledge of our finances and a deep understanding of our business. He has earned the respect and confidence of our board of directors and senior management and I look forward to working closely with Jim in the years ahead.”

Headquartered in Sandpoint, Coldwater Creek was founded in 1984. The company sells its merchandise through retail stores across the country, online and through its catalogs.