Sports Authority CEO resigns, replaced on interim basis by Jo-Ann Stores CEO

New York City -- David Campisi, CEO and president of Sports Authority has suddenly resigned after just 17 months in the position, according to The Denver Post and other newspapers. Campisi joined Sports Authority in 2004 and served in various executive roles prior to being named chief executive and president in 2010. No reason has been given for the departure.



The Englewood, Colo.-based sporting goods retailer, which is owned by the private equity firm Leonard Green & Partners, has named Darrell Webb, currently chairman and CEO of Jo-Ann Stores, as interim CEO. Webb will retain the post of chairman at Jo-Ann, but will be replaced as CEO by Travis Smith, president of the chain. Jo-Ann is also owned by Leonard Green.



“I wish the company and its employees all the best as I pursue a new chapter in my career,” Campisi said in a statement. He came to Sports Authority from Kohl’s, where he was executive VP merchandising.



Sports Authority operates more than 460 stores in 45 states.