Sears names new head of retail services

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. Sears Holdings announced that James Haworth will join the company as EVP and president of retail services succeeding Kevin Holt who will be leaving the company to pursue other opportunities. Haworth will be responsible for the oversight, leadership and strategic growth of retail services for all Kmart and Sears stores. He will serve as a member of the internal holding company business unit board of directors as well.

Haworth most recently served as chairman, president and CEO for Chia Tai Enterprises International Limited & CP Lotus, an investment holding company principally engaged in the operation of one-stop shopping centers within China. In 2005, he founded Business Decisions Inc., a consulting firm specializing in strategic product marketing for the retail, merchandising and supply chain industries. Previous to Business Decisions Inc., Haworth spent 20 years with Walmart Stores, in roles of increasing responsibility including EVP operations for Sam's Club and EVP and COO of Walmart Stores.

"We're very pleased that Jim is joining our executive team," said Bruce Johnson, interim CEO and president of Sears Holdings. "He brings a wealth of global retail experience, demonstrated success in retail operations, merchandising and strategic planning along with a great understanding of how to create lasting relationships with customers. We thank Kevin for his contributions to the company and wish him well in all future endeavors."