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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Finish Line Inc. announced Tuesday morning that it has named Samuel M. Sato president of the company.
Sato previously held the position of president of the Indianapolis-based athletic apparel chain's Finish Line brand. As president of the company, Sato will be involved in all facets of Finish Line business, said Glenn Lyon, company CEO and board chairman, in a written statement.
“Sam has a keen sense of the retail business, and his acumen will further guide Finish Line’s premium initiatives,” Lyon said. “He will direct our company’s vision and mission with his much valued retail knowledge, dedicated spirit, passion and character.”
The position of company president has been vacant since July 1, 2013, when longtime executive Steve Schneider stepped down as president and chief operating officer to become executive vice president of strategic initiatives. Schneider had been president since 2008.
Sato also was elected to the company board, filling a position vacated by Bill Kirkendall.
Sato joined Finish Line in March 2007 as executive vice president and chief merchandising officer. He had been president of the Finish Line brand since October 2012. Sato started his retail career at Nordstrom in 1985.
Finish Line has more than 1,000 locations in malls and shops inside Macy’s department stores. The company also operates the Running Specialty Group, which includes 59 specialty running stores in 13 states and the District of Columbia.
Finish Line shares rose 18 cents Tuesday morning, to $24.87 each.
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