Dive Summary:

• Current EVP and CMO of closeout retail chain Big Lots, John C. Martin, has announced his retirement with the company, effective in May of 2014,
• Martin served as executive with Big Lots for roughly a decade and has elected voluntarily to remain with the company through May 2014 to provide “guidance” to his eventual successor.
• "On behalf of the board of directors and our nearly 40,000 associates across the country, I would like to thank John for his dedication and unwavering support of Big Lots throughout the last 10 years,” stated Big Lots chairman Philip E. Mallott.

From the article:

... "In the near term, I am focused on helping the team execute our fall and holiday strategies to make the most of 2013 while also offering my support to my replacement once he or she is identified,” said Martin. “Big Lots is a great company with great people, and I am excited about what the future holds for our business. ...