Majors

Becka Johnson Kibby to Lead Edge Retail Academy

MajorsDec 30, 2025

Becka Johnson Kibby to Lead Edge Retail Academy

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.

Becka Johnson Kibby
Becka Johnson Kibby has been named CEO of the Edge Retail Academy.
Omaha, Neb.—The Edge Retail Academy has named a CEO as part of its leadership transition.

Co-founder David Brown, who previously served as president, has transitioned to the role of chairman. Brown will continue to provide strategic leadership and oversight.

Becka Johnson Kibby, formerly vice president, has been appointed as chief executive officer, a new role for the company.

She will be tasked with day-to-day leadership responsibilities, financial oversight, and execution of the Edge Retail Academy’s strategic priorities.

“Over the years, I’ve come to trust and rely on Becka’s decision-making, attention to detail, and leadership instincts,” said Brown. 

“She has earned this role through her commitment to our mission and her willingness to take on increasing responsibility. I’m grateful she is stepping into this role and excited about what’s ahead for the company.”

While Brown will step away from daily operations, he will remain active in the company.

The leadership transition follows a multi-year succession plan focused on business continuity, operational discipline, and long-term sustainability, said the company.

 Related stories will be right here … 

As part of the transition, Sherry Smith, previously director of business development, has been named the vice president of coaching strategy and development.

Sherry Smith
Sherry Smith is the new vice president of coaching strategy and development at the Edge Retail Academy.


In her new role, Smith will lead the strategic development, structure, and expansion of the Edge Retail Academy’s business coaching program.

Smith has worked alongside Johnson Kibby for several years and was instrumental in strengthening the coaching strategy, program execution, and organizational alignment across the company, said the Edge Retail Academy.

“Sherry brings an exceptional combination of strategy, experience, and insight to our business coaching program,” said Johnson Kibby. 

“Her ability to build, refine, and strengthen coaching initiatives is critical to where we’re headed as an organization. I’m excited to continue working alongside her as we unlock the next phase of growth.”

The Edge Retail Academy provides retail jewelers with data-backed strategies and business coaching in addition to helping vendors with sell-through and inventory insights.

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