Major global hardware distributor Orgill has appointed retail technology leader Sharmeelee “Sharms” Bala as Chief Digital and Information Officer. Bala brings more than two decades of experience driving large-scale digital transformation across major retail organizations including JCPenney, Gap Inc., and Walmart.

Boyden Moore, President and CEO of Orgill, said Bala’s background makes her an ideal fit for the company’s next phase of digital progress. “Her deep retail expertise, technical acumen, and leadership approach align with our commitment to building a more digitally enabled future — for Orgill and for the independent retailers we support,” he noted.

Bala previously served as CIO and Head of Product Management at JCPenney (Catalyst Brands), where she led a significant modernization effort that delivered over $50 million in incremental sales, upgraded store technologies, and improved operational efficiency. Earlier roles at Gap Inc. and Walmart included leadership across global engineering, merchandising systems, logistics, enterprise data platforms, and master data management.

Moore added that Bala’s accomplishments in areas such as AI-driven innovation, supply chain transformation, and enterprise modernization, will help accelerate Orgill’s continued growth. “Her experience positions us and our customers to stay ahead of changing technology and retail expectations,” he said.

As CDIO, Bala is responsible for Orgill’s internal technology organization, which has recently been realigned to better support the company’s strategic priorities. Her early areas of focus include mainframe development and operations, enterprise software and architecture, project management, and the advancement of Orgill’s technical infrastructure. She will also lead broader efforts to enhance digital capabilities, improve customer- and dealer-facing tools, expand analytics, and strengthen supply chain visibility.

Bala said she is energized by the opportunity to contribute to Orgill’s technology evolution. “Distribution and retail are undergoing rapid digital change. I’m excited to join a company investing thoughtfully in innovation, one that’s committed to using technology to better serve retailers and help them elevate their own operations,” she added.

Recognized as a people-first technology leader, Bala has a long track record of delivering enterprise-scale digital transformation, advancing AI and data initiatives, modernizing supply chains, and improving customer experience across both physical and digital channels.

Clay Jackson, Executive Vice President and COO, emphasized the significance of her appointment. “As CDIO, Sharms will be instrumental in guiding Orgill’s evolution amid shifting industry expectations—from the demand for more predictive and efficient operations to the need for stronger digital engagement. Bringing in leaders of her caliber reinforces our commitment to ensuring Orgill and our customers can thrive well into the future.”

Bala joins an executive team that already includes multiple veteran retail leaders, among them Moore, Co-founder of the Central Network Retail Group, and Jackson, former Vice President at Tractor Supply Co.