Sears Hometown and Outlets has a new CEO

Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores has promoted its chief operating officer to CEO.

The board of directors has elected William (Will) A. Powell as the company’s chief executive officer and resident, effective immediately. Powell succeeds W. Bruce Johnson, who as previously announced is stepping down.

“The board of directors is excited to have Will step into his new role as the company's chief executive officer and president," said board Chairman E.J. BIrd. "He has served our company for many years in roles of increasing responsibility and was an integral part of our separation from Sears Holdings. In his role as chief operating officer, Will demonstrated a strong passion and understanding of our business. He has strong, long-standing relationships with our associates, dealers, franchisees, and vendors, an integral ingredient for our business. We believe that Will has the capabilities, experience, and leadership skills to drive changes the company needs to improve its operating performance.”

Powell has been senior vice president and chief operating officer of the company since its separation from Sears Holdings Corporation in October 2012. Prior to his employment with the company he served as Sears Holdings’ senior vice president and president, Hometown Stores (at that time a division of Sears Holdings), positions he held from November 2008 to October 2012.

Powell said: “I am honored and excited about the opportunity to serve as chief executive officer and president of this great company and to work with our outstanding board of directors, executive team and associates, franchisees and dealers, and vendors. Together we will accelerate our business transformation initiatives, such as “America’s Appliance Experts” and our information systems transition. We will also focus on growing the profitability of our compelling assortments of home appliances, tools, lawn and garden equipment, sporting goods, mattresses, furniture, and household goods. Our actions will be guided by the voice of our customers, one of the greatest assets of this company.”

As of May 2, Sears Hometown operated a total of 1,248 stores across all 50 states as well as in Puerto Rico and Bermuda.