D'Ambrosio to step down as ceo of Sears

Home Textiles Today Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 1/8/2013 1:29:43 PM

Hoffman Estates, Ill. - Citing family health matters, Sears Holdings Corporation's ceo, Louis J. D'Ambrosio, said he will step down from his post at the end of the company's fiscal year on Feb. 2.

Edward Lampert will then assume the role of ceo of Sears Holdings, in addition to his role as chairman of the board of directors.

"It has been a true privilege to serve the customers, members, shareholders and associates of Sears Holdings," said D'Ambrosio, who will remain on the board until the company's next annual meeting of stockholders to be held in May 2013 and will be available to assist with a smooth transition.

"This was a very difficult decision, but necessary for family considerations," he continued. "Sears Holdings is a remarkable company going through an exciting transformation to serve its Members with excellence in Integrated Retail. I wish both the company and our talented associates much success in completing the transformation of Sears Holdings and look forward to supporting Eddie and the rest of our management team during the transition."

Lampert noted the board "greatly appreciates Lou's strong leadership in accelerating the transformation of Sears Holdings, and we understand and respect his personal decision to step down. Lou has guided Sears Holdings during a time of rapid industry change to become a more customer and member-focused company and positioned us to lead in Integrated Retail. His contributions to our company have been significant, and the entire Sears Holdings family wishes Lou and his family the very best."

In light of D'Ambrosio's decision to step down, "the board feels it is important that there is continuity of leadership during this important period of transformation and improvement at Sears Holdings." For that reason, Lampert said he has agreed to assume these additional responsibilities "in order to continue the company's recovery and sustain the momentum we are experiencing, as well as further the development of the management team under the distributed leadership model, which provides our business unit leaders with greater control, authority and autonomy."