Is Stefan a good fit at Ralph Lauren? Seems a tailor-made solution ...

Ralph Lauren is standing down as CEO. The press, citing the recent poor financial performance of Ralph Lauren Corporation [RL] applauded the choice of Stefan Larsson, successful Old Navy executive, as successor.  It was all about financial turn around.  For a Talent Manager, it also felt like good succession planning.  
Succession is always contextual and RL have a successor proven to deliver growth, through great fashion, but in tough economic conditions.  In selecting a successor who hasn't had the top job before, they were also able to have the role report to Ralph Lauren.  And retaining the founder as Chief Creative Officer provides continuity to the direction set by the 75 year old fashion icon.  RL avoids disruption, while foreshadowing a needed change in business strategy. And the market liked it.  RL stock responded positively, up 12%.  On the other hand, Gap Inc. [GPS] lost a talent - and the market noticed that as well..  down 6%. 
Any senior executive appointment is risky.  According to CEB: "of the 40% of leaders .. hired from outside each year, nearly half fail within the first 18 months".   So for a company under pressure, looking to deliver change but needing to minimize disruption,  this looks like a good succession strategy.  For good talent management practices, let's wish RL every success.   Oh ... and did I mention, I love the brand.