Dave Kimbell, chief executive officer of Ulta Beauty, stepped down on Monday, surprising many industry insiders. Kecia Steelman, president and chief operating officer, will succeed him as president and CEO and will join the company’s board. Kimbell will serve as an adviser to the company through June 28.

Ulta Beauty CEO Dave Kimbell will retire and Kecia Steelman, current President and COO, has been named as his successor.

US retailer Ulta Beauty has promoted Kecia Steelman to president and CEO, effective immediately. She replaces Dave Kimbell, who is retiring after an 11-year tenure. He is also stepping down from the company’s board of directors, but will stay on as an advisor to Ulta Beauty through 28 June.

Ulta Beauty shares are trading higher in Monday's after-hours session after the company announced a CEO transition and updated its near-term outlook.

Kecia Steelman succeeds Kimbell and his 11-year tenure.

Key Takeaways Ulta Beauty said CEO Dave Kimbell is retiring after 11 years at the company, effective Monday.Kimbell will be succeeded by Chief Operating Officer Kecia Steelman.The cosmetics retailer also said it expects its fourth-quarter operating margin to land above the high end of its previously estimated range.

CEO Dave Kimbell is stepping down effective immediately, Ulta said Monday, and will stay on as an advisor through June 28.

Ulta Beauty announced that CEO Dave Kimbell will retire, with COO Kecia Steelman stepping in as CEO and joining the board effective immediately. The company also raised its fiscal fourth-quarter outlook due to stronger-than-expected holiday performance,