This leadership change follows the retirement of Dave Kimbell, who has been with Ulta Beauty for eleven years.

Cosmetics retailer Ulta Beauty said on Monday insider Kecia Steelman will replace retiring CEO Dave Kimbell in the top role, and forecast a strong fourth quarter, sending its shares up about 2% in extended trading.

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.

Kecia Steelman named President and Chief Executive Officer of Ulta Beauty. (Photo: Business Wire)

Ulta Beauty announced CEO Dave Kimbell's retirement Monday, but JPMorgan analysts don't see the transition as a negative for the cosmetics retailer.

Shares of Ulta Beauty were up 0.97% in after-hours trading session on Monday as the specialty retailer announced its CEO Dave Kimbell will step down from his post, with retail sentiment staying bearish.

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.