ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sports Authority, the nation’s premier full-line sporting goods retailer, announced today that the Company has accepted the resignation of Mr. David Campisi as Chief Executive Officer and President of Sports Authority. Darrell Webb has been named the Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Company.
Mr. Webb is a 31-year veteran of the retailing industry, and currently serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Jo-Ann Stores. Mr. Webb previously has held senior positions at The Kroger Company, Fred Meyer Stores and Quality Food Centers. Mr. 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.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank David for the positive role he has played in contributing to the growth of our business during his tenure at Sports Authority,” said Jonathan Sokoloff, Managing Partner, Leonard Green & Partners, L.P. Mr. Campisi joined Sports Authority in 2004 and has served in various executive roles prior to being named Chief Executive Officer and President in 2010.
“I am proud of our accomplishments at Sports Authority,” said Mr. Campisi. “Together we have built a talented management team, improved our brand presence and expanded our store base. I wish the Company and its employees all the best as I pursue a new chapter in my career.”
About Sports Authority
Headquartered in Englewood, CO, Sports Authority is one of the nation’s largest full-line sporting goods retailers, offering a comprehensive and high-quality assortment of brand name sporting apparel and equipment at competitive prices.
Sports Authority is staffed with experts in all areas of sports and fitness related topics, and strives to be the ultimate “authority,” both on and off the field. Whether in the game or cheering from the sidelines, Sports Authority is the leading destination for consumers to fulfill their own sports equipment needs, as well as find their favorite team’s apparel.
Sports Authority operates over 460 stores in 45 states, and employs more than 15,000 associates nationwide. It also operates stores in Japan under a licensing agreement with AEON Co., Ltd. The company’s e-commerce website is located at www.sportsauthority.com.
About Leonard Green & Partners, L.P.
Leonard Green & Partners, L.P. is a leading private equity firm with over $9 billion of equity capital under management. Based in Los Angeles, the firm invests in market leading companies across a range of industries. Significant current retail investments include The Sports Authority, Jo-Ann Stores, J. Crew, Whole Foods Market, Neiman Marcus Group, PETCO Animal Supplies, Leslie’s Poolmart, The Container Store, David’s Bridal, Jetro Cash and Carry, and The Tire Rack.