Kecia L. Steelman is an American business executive who has served as president and chief executive officer of Ulta Beauty since January 2025.[1][2] She previously held senior roles at Target Corporation, Home Depot and Family Dollar before joining Ulta Beauty in 2014, where she advanced through store operations leadership to chief operating officer (2021) and president and COO (2023).[3]
Steelman began her career at Target Corporation in 1993, serving in retail operations and merchandising roles through 2005. She then joined The Home Depot as vice president and general manager for Expo Design Center, Home Depot Design Center and YardBIRDs, and later as director of new store innovations (2005–2009). From 2009 to 2014, she worked at Family Dollar in store development and operations leadership, becoming group vice president in 2011.[3]
Steelman joined Ulta Beauty in July 2014 as senior vice president of store operations and was named chief store operations officer in September 2015. She became chief operating officer in June 2021 and president and COO in September 2023, overseeing corporate strategy, store and services operations, supply chain and international expansion efforts.
On 6 January 2025, Ulta Beauty announced that Steelman would succeed Dave Kimbell as president and CEO and join the company’s board of directors.[2][1] As CEO, she has overseen Ulta Beauty’s international expansion, including the July 2025 acquisition of UK retailer Space NK.[4] In August 2025, the company raised its annual sales and profit forecast after topping quarterly sales estimates, citing steady beauty demand and the UK expansion.[5]
Board service and other activities
Steelman serves on the board of directors of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Bay Clubs - a KKR Portfolio Company, and the Adler Planetarium and chaired its board (2023–2025).[6] She is also a member of The Economic Club of Chicago and on the executive committee of World Business Chicago.[3]
Education
Steelman holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Kennedy Western University.
Recognition
In September 2024, Steelman was recognized by WWD X FN X Beauty Inc. on their Women in Power List.
In June 2025, Mass Market Retail (MMR) named Steelman as a 'Woman of Influence' for 2025.
In October 2025, Steelman was included in Forbes' 50 Over 50 List.
Personal & Family
Kecia is married to her husband, Gray Steelman. Together, they have five children and three grandchildren.
Early Life
Kecia's journey began in Mediapolis, Iowa with humble beginnings. Her grit and determination are a result of where she started, and what she describes as her “PHD” in life: poor, hungry & determined, which has further fueled her career journey and success. Kecia began her career on the sales floor — grounding her leadership in a deep understanding of retail operations, front line teams, and customer experience.
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