Bath & Body Works, Inc. Announces Departure of Chief Legal Officer Michael Wu

Bath & Body Works, Inc. (NYSE: BBWI) has announced a significant executive change that may draw investor attention and potentially impact the company’s share price. Effective February 24, 2026, Michael Wu has ceased to serve as the company’s Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary. This move comes as the company initiates a search for a new Chief Legal Officer.

Key Points for Investors

• Executive Departure: Michael Wu’s departure is effective immediately as of February 24, 2026. He will no longer perform the duties of Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary for Bath & Body Works, Inc.
• Interim Arrangements: Mr. Wu is expected to remain with the company as a non-executive employee to assist with the orderly transition of his responsibilities until his anticipated separation date, which is expected to be on or about March 27, 2026.
• Compensation and Transition: Until his separation date, Mr. Wu will continue to receive compensation and benefits as outlined in his existing employment agreement. This agreement was previously filed as Exhibit 10.30 to the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2025, filed with the SEC on March 14, 2025.
• Restrictive Covenants Post-Separation: After his separation from the company, Mr. Wu will remain subject to several restrictive covenants, including:
  • Perpetual confidentiality obligations
  • A one-year post-termination non-solicitation covenant
  • A nine-month post-termination non-competition covenant
• Search for Successor: Bath & Body Works has initiated a search process to identify a new Chief Legal Officer to replace Mr. Wu.

Potential Impact on Shareholders

• The departure of a C-suite executive, especially the Chief Legal Officer, is a material event for a public company. The Chief Legal Officer is responsible for overseeing legal, compliance, and governance functions, which are critical to Bath & Body Works’ operations and strategic initiatives.
• This transition may create a period of uncertainty until a permanent replacement is appointed. Such uncertainty can sometimes weigh on investor sentiment, especially if there are ongoing or anticipated regulatory, litigation, or strategic matters that require steady legal leadership.
• Investors should monitor future company communications regarding both the progress of the search for a new Chief Legal Officer and any updates on the company’s legal and compliance posture.
• The company’s adherence to restrictive covenants with Mr. Wu, including confidentiality and non-competition clauses, should provide some continuity and protection against competitive risks during the transition period.

Other Notable Disclosures

• No other executive changes or material events were reported in the filing.
• No written communications, soliciting materials, or pre-commencement tender offers were disclosed in this filing.
• Bath & Body Works’ common stock continues to be listed on The New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BBWI.

Conclusion

The departure of the Chief Legal Officer is a noteworthy development for Bath & Body Works, Inc. Investors should remain attentive to subsequent filings and company communications regarding both the executive search process and any material legal or compliance matters during this transitionary period.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should conduct their own due diligence and consult with their financial advisors before making investment decisions. The information herein is based on publicly available filings and may be subject to change.

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