Stein Mart appoints Kleffner cfo

-- Home Textiles Today, 8/5/2009 1:23:00 PM

Jacksonville, Fla. – Stein Mart Inc. has appointed Gregory W. Kleffner as svp of finance and cfo of the off-price mid-level department store chain.

He succeeds James G. Delfs, who announced his plans to retire from the same dual post during Stein Mart’s annual shareholder meeting June 9. Delfs has been with the retailer for the past 14 years.

Kleffner is set to assume his new duties on August 10.

Most recently, Kleffner spent the past six years with women’s apparel marketing firm Kellwood Company, most recently as cfo. While at Kellwood, he was credited with helping restructure the $2.5 billion company, including the disposal of certain non-core businesses and the successful integration of several acquisitions.

Prior to Kellwood, Kleffner served as audit and advisory partner with Arthur Andersen LLP in St. Louis, Mo. During his 25 years there, his clients included several major retailers.

"Greg's strong financial and strategic experience with industry-leading manufacturers and retailers makes him a great addition to our team," said David H. Stovall Jr., president and ceo, Stein Mart. "His leadership will be instrumental as we make progress toward achieving our strategic goals and positioning ourselves for the future."