Kohl’s CEO Tries to Reverse Record-Low Morale in Latest Address

Kohl’s Corp.’s interim Chief Executive Officer Michael Bender tried to quell employee unrest during one of his first all-hands calls since replacing Ashley Buchanan last month.

During the meeting, the company’s Chief People Officer Mari Steinmetz said employee engagement was at its lowest in more than 15 years, according to a recording viewed by Bloomberg News that referenced a company survey. The retailer also told staff that a huge number of employees commented on the survey — some sharing concerns, according to a video recording viewed by Bloomberg News.

“It’s been a period of rapid change here at ...