Zale Corporation has announced several management changes, including the departure of its president of North American operations, John Zimmermann, effective immediately.

The Dallas-based jewelry retailer also said it was undertaking a search to fill a newly created chief operating officer position.

Zale (NYSE: ZLC) said it is eliminating brand presidents, beginning with its moderate brands, such as Zales, Gordon's, Zales Outlet and Peoples/Mappins.

"We believe there are significant synergies and efficiencies to be gained by the elimination of redundancies and more teaming across brands," said CEO Betsy Burton. "We are starting with the consolidation of support functions across the moderate brands as an important step in achieving this goal."

Zale Corp. also promoted Steve Lang to group senior vice president and chief merchandising officer. He will oversee buying for all the moderate brands. Lang formerly served as senior vice president of the Gordon's brand.