Former RadioShack chief joins Sears Outlets board

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores has elected James Gooch to its board of directors and as chair of the audit committee of the board of directors.

"We are delighted to add Jim Gooch's strong financial, analytical, and retail skills to our board of directors and audit committee. As we continue to grow our business, we look forward to his leadership and contributions," said William Harker, chairman of the board of directors of Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores Inc. "Gooch's extensive experience, knowledge, and understanding of retail and consumer-product businesses will help us accelerate our growth."

Gooch had served as president and CEO of RadioShack and prior to that as its CFO. Earlier in his career he was employed by Helene Curtis, The Quaker Oats Company, Kmart Corporation, and Sears Holdings. He is a Certified Public Accountant.

Gooch's election increases the number of directors to seven.