As chief financial officer (CFO) of e-commerce and retail fashion company Forever 21, Michael W. Kramer has overcome an industry downturn to strengthen the company's financial footing as well as its revenue stream. He accepted his current position in 2016 and quickly established a collaborative relationship with the company's CEO, thus supporting an increase in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). Successful in arranging a new asset-backed loan of $500 million at improved terms, Michael W. Kramer also facilitated a bank partnership that resulted in a $75 million increase in working capital.

Michael W. Kramer comes to his role as co-owner and director of a fast casual restaurant chain, which under his leadership earned spots on the Top 25 Fastest Growing Fast Casuals roster and the Future 50 list of Restaurant Business magazine. He took on this leadership position following success as chief operating officer of JCPenney, where he reduced inventory costs by 27 percent and reduced selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses by $1 billion.

Michael W. Kramer has also served as president and CEO of fashion industry group Kellwood Company and as chief financial officer and executive vice president of Abercrombie & Fitch. He took on the latter role following service as vice president and CEO of Apple Retail, having previously served as controller and acting CFO of The Limited Inc.