The Finish Line names new ceo

INDIANAPOLIS The Finish Line today announced that subject to the completion of the company's previously announced acquisition of Genesco. Robert Dennis, currently Genesco's president and coo, will become president of the combined company. The transaction is expected to close this fall.

In this newly created position, Dennis will report directly to Alan Cohen, The Finish Line's ceo, and will have oversight responsibility for all of the combined company's operating divisions including Finish Line, Man Alive, Paiva, Journeys, Journeys Kidz, Shi by Journeys, Underground Station, Hat World, Lids Kids, Johnston & Murphy and Licensed Brands. Dennis will also have oversight responsibility of the combined company's operational support functions, including corporate administration, human resources, real estate and information systems.

Dennis was named president of Genesco in October 2006, adding to his existing responsibilities as coo. In addition, he was elected a director of Genesco in October 2006. In October 2005, he was named evp and coo of the company. Dennis, who became ceo of Hat World in 2001, was named a senior vp of Genesco in June 2004 following Genesco's acquisition of Hat World in April 2004.

A22-year retail veteran, Dennis's experience includes a senior position with Asbury Automotive from 1997 to 1999. From 1984 to 1997 he was with McKinsey & Company, an international consulting firm, where he was a partner and a leader of the North American Retail Practice.