Thomas Dowd steps in as GNC's chief merchandising officer

PITTSBURGH — Thomas Dowd has been named GNC EVP, chief merchandising officer and general manager, the company announced in an SEC filing Friday.

Dowd has served as EVP store operations and development since April 2007.

The move follows the announcement in June that Beth Kaplan would be stepping down from her role as GNC president and chief merchandising officer. Following that announcement, GNC CEO Joe Fortunato reassumed his role of president.

GNC last month appointed Amy Lane to serve as a member of its board of directors in place of Kaplan. Lane, who serves as director for off-price home and fashion apparel conglomerate TJX Cos., also will serve on the board's audit committee.