Best Buy promotes entertainment business executive

Owen moves to senior VP of operating group

By Jennifer Netherby -- Video Business, 7/12/2007

Owen replaces Gary Arnold, who was named last month to the newly created role of senior entertainment officer, where he will work to secure exclusive releases for the retailer.

Owen reports to executive VP of entertainment Shari Ballard, who was put in charge of the entertainment business last month.

Owen previously served as VP of customer care, where she was in charge of the retailer’s 15 call centers. In that role, she has been credited with reducing the percentage of employee turnover and improved the customer experience by adopting new customer care models. Before that, she held roles in marketing, advertising and visual merchandising.

“Entertainment is the heart and soul of Best Buy,” Ballard said in a statement announcing the promotion. “Julie Owen understands the critical link between an engaged employee and a terrific customer experience. Her significant expertise in business operations and transformation activities, coupled with her passion and ability to motivate employees, will be tremendous assets as we work to build deeper relationships with the entertainment enthusiasts among our customer base.”