GNC Holdings, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA, a leading global specialty retailer of health, wellness and performance products, revealed that its board of directors has appointed Robert F. Moran, an independent director of GNC and former chairman and chief executive officer of PetSmart, Inc., as interim chief executive officer, effective immediately. Mr. Moran replaces Michael G. Archbold, chief executive officer, who is leaving the company and has resigned from the GNC Board. Mr. Moran will remain on the GNC Board. The company also stated that its previously announced strategic review process remains ongoing.
 
“As we continue the strategic review process and move with urgency to improve performance, the board believes it is the right time to undertake this change to drive effective execution of our plans,” said Michael F. Hines, GNC’s chairman. “During Bob’s four decades as a successful retail executive he demonstrated a proven ability to lead organizations in highly competitive environments and deliver profitable growth and shareholder value. His insights and perspective have been valuable during his tenure as an independent director, and we are grateful for his willingness to step into the interim CEO role at this time.”
 
Mr. Hines continued, “I want to thank Mike for his contributions to GNC as CEO, including recruiting strong new talent to the management team and initiating a significant refranchising plan in the face of a challenging environment. We wish him well in the future.”
 
Mr. Moran said, “Over the past few years, I have become familiar with the business and its potential, and I have the utmost confidence in GNC’s prospects. I look forward to working closely with the Board and the talented team across GNC to serve our customers, deliver improved financial performance, and continue our strategic review as we work to change the trajectory of the business and enhance shareholder value.”
 
Mr. Moran, 65, has over 40 years of executive leadership experience both domestically and internationally. He joined the GNC Board in July 2013. Mr. Moran most recently served as chairman and chief executive officer of PetSmart, a leading specialty provider of pet products, services and solutions until June 2013. Prior to being appointed chairman in January 2012, Mr. Moran served as PetSmart’s chief executive officer since June 2009 and its president and chief operating officer from December 2001 to June 2009.
 
Before joining PetSmart in 1999, Mr. Moran was president of Toys “R” Us Canada following various executive positions across finance and merchandising with Sears, Roebuck & Company, including as president and CEO of Sears de Mexico. 
 
Previously, he was chief financial officer of Galerias Preciados, a leading Spanish retailer. Mr. Moran served on the boards of directors of Collective Brands, Inc. from March 2005 to October 2012 and of PetSmart from September 2009 to June 2013. He currently serves on the boards of directors of Hanesbrands, Inc. and the USA Track & Field Foundation.