Ollie's Bargain Outlet Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ollie's Bargain Outlet has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, finance, operations, and founding vision.

Driven by a commitment to value, Ollie's Bargain Outlet operates as America's largest retailer of closeout merchandise, delivering exceptional deals on a wide array of products to customers nationwide.

Leadership Roles at Ollie's Bargain Outlet

  • President, Chief Executive Officer & Director - John Swygert
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Robert Helm
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Christopher Zender
  • Head Chief Information Officer, Payroll Services - Lawrence Kraus
  • Founding Father - Morton Bernstein
  • John Swygert - President, Chief Executive Officer & Director

    John Swygert, the President, Chief Executive Officer & Director at Ollie's Bargain Outlet, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution. Swygert guides the company's expansion initiatives, ensuring alignment with the core mission of providing extreme value to customers. This leadership role involves overseeing all major business units and driving performance across the retail network. By focusing on efficient inventory management and strategic sourcing, John Swygert ensures the continued profitability and market leadership of Ollie's Bargain Outlet. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering a culture of fiscal discipline and operational excellence throughout the organization, directly impacting the company's financial health and long-term growth trajectory.

    Robert Helm - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Robert Helm, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Ollie's Bargain Outlet, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Helm oversees all financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. This executive position involves developing financial strategies that support sustainable growth and profitability, directly influencing investment decisions and capital allocation. By meticulously analyzing market trends and economic conditions, Robert Helm provides critical insights to guide executive decision-making. The Chief Financial Officer's stewardship ensures the financial integrity of Ollie's Bargain Outlet, optimizing resource utilization and maximizing shareholder value through prudent financial management.
    Robert Helm

    Christopher Zender - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Christopher Zender, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Ollie's Bargain Outlet, directs the day-to-day operational activities across the enterprise. Zender focuses on optimizing supply chain logistics, inventory control, and store operations to ensure maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This leadership position involves implementing operational strategies that enhance the customer shopping experience and streamline internal processes. By overseeing the execution of business plans, Christopher Zender drives productivity and ensures the seamless functioning of all retail locations. The Chief Operating Officer's commitment to operational excellence underpins Ollie's Bargain Outlet's ability to consistently deliver exceptional value and maintain its market dominance in the closeout retail sector.

    Lawrence Kraus - Head Chief Information Officer, Payroll Services

    Lawrence Kraus, the Head Chief Information Officer, Payroll Services at Ollie's Bargain Outlet, architects the company's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Kraus oversees the development and implementation of IT systems that support all facets of the business, from point-of-sale operations to supply chain management. This critical role ensures the seamless integration of technology solutions, enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience. By managing payroll services and related financial technology, Lawrence Kraus guarantees accurate and timely compensation for the workforce. The Chief Information Officer's focus on innovation drives the adoption of new technologies, securing Ollie's Bargain Outlet's competitive edge in the retail landscape and supporting robust data security protocols.

    Morton Bernstein - Founding Father

    Morton Bernstein, the Founding Father at Ollie's Bargain Outlet, provides foundational vision and strategic guidance rooted in the company's inception. Bernstein's enduring influence shapes the core philosophy of sourcing and selling closeout merchandise at unparalleled prices. This unique role involves contributing historical perspective and long-term strategic insights that honor the company's legacy. By maintaining a connection to the original business model, Morton Bernstein ensures that the spirit of value and discovery remains central to Ollie's Bargain Outlet's operations. The Founding Father's contributions are integral to preserving the unique brand identity and market position that has defined the company since its establishment.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ollie's Bargain Outlet Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ollie's Bargain Outlet?
    Ollie's Bargain Outlet is led by John Swygert (President, Chief Executive Officer & Director), along with executives such as Robert Helm (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Christopher Zender (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Ollie's Bargain Outlet’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ollie's Bargain Outlet includes leaders such as John Swygert (President, Chief Executive Officer & Director), Robert Helm (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Christopher Zender (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ollie's Bargain Outlet have?
    Ollie's Bargain Outlet has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ollie's Bargain Outlet’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ollie's Bargain Outlet includes roles such as President, Chief Executive Officer & Director, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Head Chief Information Officer, Payroll Services, Founding Father.