Ross announces company-wide promotions

PLEASANTON, Calif. Ross Stores announced a new senior management structure which it believes will enhance the Company's prospects for growth and profitability over the long term. Effective immediately:

* Barbara Rentler, formerly EVP merchandising of Ross Dress for Less, has been promoted to president and chief merchandising offficer. In her new role, she will continue to manage all apparel and apparel-related merchandising at Ross, as well as take on responsibility for the Ross home businesses.

* Michael O'Sullivan, formerly EVP and chief administrative officer, becomes president and COO.  O'Sullivan will add store operations to his responsibilities which currently include supply chain, information technology, strategy, finance, legal and human resources.

* James Fassio, previously EVP property development, construction and store design, has been named president and chief development officer. Fassio will continue to oversee the company's entire real estate strategy, including new store development, construction and store design for both Ross Dress for Less and dd's DISCOUNTS.

Rentler, O'Sullivan and Fassio, along with Douglas Baker, EVP merchandising of dd's DISCOUNTS, will continue to report directly to Michael Balmuth, vice chairman and CEO.

The following executive promotions also are effective immediately:

* Lisa Panattoni, formerly EVP merchandising for the Ross Dress for Less home businesses, has been promoted to group EVP and is adding men's and children's to her current responsibilities.

* Bernard Brautigan, has been promoted from SVP to EVP merchandising for misses better sportswear as well as shoes, accessories, jewelry, lingerie and ladies hosiery.

* Jennifer Vecchio, has been promoted from SVP to EVP merchandising for East Coast men's and children's.

In commenting, Balmuth said, "We are thrilled to announce the promotions of these proven executives. Our strong senior management team, comprised of experienced and highly skilled off-price talent, gives us the ability to develop this new organizational structure to support the long-term leadership needs of our business."

The company also announced the promotions of the following individuals to SVP:

* Angela Culhane, previously group VP and divisional merchandise manager has been promoted to SVP and general merchandise manager of housewares, cosmetics and fragrances.

* Susanne DeMarco has been promoted from group VP and divisional merchandise manager to SVP and general merchandise manager of shoes.

* Joyce Pearson, has been promoted from group VP and divisional merchandise manager to SVP and general merchandise manager of dresses.

* Gregg McGillis, formerly group VP has been promoted to SVP of property development.