Barnes & Noble Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Barnes & Noble has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, financial management, and operational leadership.

Committed to fostering a national culture of literacy, Barnes & Noble prioritizes the creation of welcoming retail environments that encourage discovery and lifelong learning for every customer.

Leadership Roles at Barnes & Noble

  • Chief Executive Officer - James Daunt
  • Group Chief Financial Officer - Emily Frost
  • Newly-Created Post of President - Alan Kahn
  • Chief Information Officer - Carlo Pochintesta
  • James Daunt - Chief Executive Officer

    James Daunt, the Chief Executive Officer at Barnes & Noble, directs the overarching strategic vision for the national retail network. By prioritizing the curation of local bookstore experiences, the Chief Executive Officer transforms traditional retail spaces into vibrant community hubs for discovery and learning. This leadership role involves constant refinement of inventory management and store aesthetics to ensure alignment with the evolving needs of American readers. James Daunt drives operational excellence by empowering store managers to tailor selections to specific neighborhood demographics. Through the implementation of decentralized decision-making, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of autonomy that enhances customer engagement across the United States. Daunt maintains a sharp focus on long-term sustainability, ensuring that the company remains a cornerstone of cultural retail. By balancing physical expansion with digital integration, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the brand as a premier destination for knowledge and literature.
    James Daunt

    Emily Frost - Group Chief Financial Officer

    Emily Frost, the Group Chief Financial Officer at Barnes & Noble, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the entire retail organization. Overseeing comprehensive financial planning and analysis, the Group Chief Financial Officer ensures the company maintains the resources necessary to support its widespread community presence. This leadership role involves rigorous oversight of budgetary performance and investment in store renovations across the United States. Emily Frost drives profitability by optimizing cost structures and identifying opportunities for sustainable growth within the competitive book retail sector. By providing critical financial insights to the executive team, the Group Chief Financial Officer enables data-driven decision-making regarding inventory procurement and real estate expansion. Frost maintains strict compliance with regulatory standards while fostering transparency in all fiscal reporting. Through the strategic management of assets and liabilities, the Group Chief Financial Officer secures the financial stability required to continue the company's mission of connecting readers with ideas and knowledge.

    Alan Kahn - Newly-Created Post of President

    Alan Kahn, the Newly-Created Post of President at Barnes & Noble, executes the operational strategies required to maintain the company's status as a leading cultural retailer. Overseeing the day-to-day management of store operations and regional performance, the Newly-Created Post of President ensures that every location serves as a welcoming space for discovery and engagement. This role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to implement new merchandising initiatives and customer service standards nationwide. Alan Kahn drives organizational efficiency by streamlining internal processes and fostering collaboration between corporate headquarters and local store management. By focusing on the execution of the company's mission, the Newly-Created Post of President enhances the overall customer experience and strengthens the brand's market position. Kahn monitors key performance indicators to identify areas for improvement in store productivity and community outreach. Through consistent leadership, the Newly-Created Post of President supports the company's commitment to creating meaningful experiences for readers of all ages.

    Carlo Pochintesta - Chief Information Officer

    Carlo Pochintesta, the Chief Information Officer at Barnes & Noble, architects the digital infrastructure supporting nationwide retail operations. Overseeing the integration of advanced inventory systems and e-commerce platforms, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity between physical storefronts and digital customer touchpoints. This role involves managing complex data networks that track millions of book titles, facilitating efficient supply chain logistics across the United States. Carlo Pochintesta drives technological innovation by implementing robust cybersecurity protocols to protect consumer data and corporate assets. By modernizing point-of-sale systems, the Chief Information Officer enhances the speed and reliability of transactions for every visitor. Pochintesta collaborates with executive leadership to align technical roadmaps with the broader mission of fostering a love of reading. Through the deployment of scalable cloud solutions, the Chief Information Officer supports the company's ability to adapt to shifting market demands while maintaining high standards of operational efficiency.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Barnes & Noble Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Barnes & Noble?
    Barnes & Noble is led by James Daunt (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Emily Frost (Group Chief Financial Officer) and Alan Kahn (Newly-Created Post of President).
    Who is part of Barnes & Noble’s executive team?
    The executive team of Barnes & Noble includes leaders such as James Daunt (Chief Executive Officer), Emily Frost (Group Chief Financial Officer), Alan Kahn (Newly-Created Post of President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Barnes & Noble have?
    Barnes & Noble has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Barnes & Noble’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Barnes & Noble includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Group Chief Financial Officer, Newly-Created Post of President, Chief Information Officer.