David Campisi, the chief executive officer and president of The Sports Authority, Inc. has resigned. The company said Darrell Webb has been named the interim chief executive officer of the company. Webb is the chairman and chief executive officer of Jo-Ann Stores.
Campisi joined Sports Authority in 2004 from Kohl's and served in various executive roles prior to being named chief executive officer and president in 2010.
“On behalf of the board of directors, I want to thank David for the positive role he had played in contributing to the growth of our business during his tenure at Sports Authority,” said Jonathan Sokoloff, managing partner of Leonard Green & Partners LP, the private equity firm that owns the sporting goods chain.
“I am proud of our accomplishments at Sports Authority,” said Campisi. “Together we have built a talented management team, improved our brand presence and expanded our store base. I wish the ompany and its employees all the best as I pursue a new chapter in my career.”
Leonard Green & Partners also holds stakes in J. Crew, Whole Foods Market and Jo-Ann Stores.
Webb is a 31-year veteran of the retailing industry, and currently serves as the chairman and chief executive officer of Jo-Ann Stores. Webb previously has held senior positions at The Kroger Company, Fred Meyer Stores and Quality Food Centers. Webb will retain his position as Chairman of Jo-Ann Stores while serving as Interim CEO of Sports Authority.
“As a life-long sports and outdoor enthusiast, I am extremely excited about joining the Sports Authority team and I am looking forward to the positive contributions I can make to the company's already strong market position,” said Mr. Webb.
