The new format, which includes the appointment of seven vps, is competitive with other independent companies and strengthens the company's leadership structure, Mervyns said.

"As Mervyns continues on its path to becoming an independent company, we are making significant investments in the business, including opening new stores, store refurbishments and implementing new technology systems. This new leadership structure is another important piece of that investment," said Vanessa Castagna, executive chairwoman of Mervyns' board of directors. "These promotions reflect the exceptional contributions these individuals have made to our current and continuing success, as well as their significant responsibility in driving our business strategies and delivering results."

David Kranz, dmm for misses apparel, has been promoted to vp and merchandise manager for misses apparel. Kranz joined Mervyns in February 2005 from the Old Navy division of Gap Inc., where he was merchandise manager of women's apparel.

Gary Schettino, dmm for men's, has been promoted to vp and merchandise manager for men's. Schettino joined Mervyns in July 2005 from Guess? Inc., where he was senior vp.

Julie Tomasi, dmm for jewelry, accessories and intimate apparel, has been promoted to vp and merchandise manager for jewelry, accessories and intimate apparel. Tomasi joined Mervyns in 1997 as a business analyst and has held various merchandising positions at Mervyns prior to her recent appointment.

In their new positions, Kranz, Schettino and Tomasi will be responsible for overseeing the merchandise process for their respective divisions, including strategic management and planning, spearheading merchandising or new product initiatives, executing national and private-label brand strategies, and product development.

Dana Allison, director of transportation and logistics, has been promoted to vp of supply chain. Allison joined Mervyns in 1996 and has held numerous positions at Mervyns including serving as general manager of two distribution centers. In his new position, Allison will be responsible for directing the overall operations of Mervyns' Fremont and Ontario, Calif. distribution centers, and overseeing transportation and logistics for the company.

Michelle Belasco, director of human resources, has been promoted to vp of human resources for Mervyns' headquarters and retail operations. Belasco joined Mervyns in 1973 and has held various HR positions within Mervyns prior to her recent appointment. In her new position, Belasco will be responsible for overseeing all human resource practices and setting organizational policies for Mervyns' headquarters, stores and distribution centers.

Kathleen Martinez, director of merchandise planning for misses and junior apparel, has been promoted to vp of merchandise planning for women's ready-to-wear. Martinez joined Mervyns in 1979 and has held various merchandising positions at Mervyns prior to her recent appointment. In her new position, Martinez will be responsible for overseeing the development, management and delivery of seasonal financial and inventory plans for her respective merchandise division category.

Amanda Riley, assistant general counsel, has been promoted to vp and assistant general counsel and assistant secretary. Riley joined Mervyns in October 2004 from the law firm of Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher, where she specialized in mergers and acquisitions and general corporate representation. In her new position, Riley will be responsible for providing expert advice, counsel and support on all legal and corporate compliance functions for Mervyns.

Mervyns LLC specializes in trend-right fashions and home decor. The company operates 187 locations in 10 states.