MARSHALL TWP — Five months after a major restructuring effort, a leadership position at Rue 21 has changed.

Laurie Van Brunta left the company earlier this month, having served as CEO since June. Her departure prompted the company to name Michael Appel, board chairman, as her permanent replacement, effective Nov. 12.

Appel previously served as interim CEO from October 2017 to June 2018, when Van Brunt was first appointed. He will continue his duties as chairman of the board. A Friday news release from Rue 21 noted that Van Brunta’s resignation was a “mutual decision.”

“The board of directors of Rue 21 has asked Michael Appel to re-assume the senior leadership of the company as chief executive officer on a permanent basis,” the board said. “Our decision is based on the progress made under Michael’s leadership as interim CEO, his successful recruitment of senior leadership and retaining key management.”

Appel previously served in senior positions at numerous companies, including Bloomingdales, Loehmanns and other companies.

Rue 21’s headquarters is in Marshall Township near the Cranberry Township line. The company operates 752 stores in 45 states. The company’s store at the Cranberry Mall in Cranberry Township closed in 2017.