Dots names former Wal-Mart exec as new CEO, unveils plans to grow to 1,000 stores

Glenwillow, Ohio -- Fashion retailer Dots announced Tuesday it has named former Wal-Mart Stores senior VP Lisa Rhodes as its new CEO.



Rhodes, who led Wal-Mart’s U.S. apparel merchandising division, has been charged with leading Dots’ march toward 1,000 stores, also announced Tuesday.



Prior to her role at Wal-Mart, Rhodes was executive VP and chief merchandising officer for Maurice’s.



Rick Bunka will remain president at Dots, overseeing the balance of the corporate support functions at its Ohio headquarters, where the company's store operations, distribution, financial, human resources, and information technology segments will remain. The retailer also announced plans to create a Dots merchandise center in New York City.



"These moves are a bold step to propel Dots into a true national retailer,” said Bunka.



Dots currently has more than 400 stores in 28 states. Irving Place Capital made an investment in the company in January 2011.