NEWARK, Calif., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Ross Stores, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROST) announced today that Megan S. Jamieson, 37, has joined the company as Senior Vice President, Strategic Planning. Ms. Jamieson will be located in the company's New York buying offices and will report directly to the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Michael Balmuth.

Before joining Ross, Ms. Jamieson served as Director of Strategy for Sears, Roebuck & Co.'s full-line store division. Her background includes over 15 years of retail or strategic planning experience. Prior to Sears, she was with Bain & Co. in Boston for four years as a case team leader. Originally from New Zealand, she began her career as a retail buyer with LD Nathan Limited, followed by strategic planning positions with Wattie Industries Limited, Air New Zealand Limited and Ernst & Young.

In commenting, Michael Balmuth, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "We are delighted to have Megan Jamieson join the Ross senior management team. Her extensive strategic planning skills and experience will be valuable assets as we continue to develop and fine-tune strategic initiatives to position Ross for continued growth into the next century."

Ross Stores, Inc. reported sales of $2.2 billion in 1998, its most recent fiscal year. The off-price retailer operates 349 stores in 17 states, offering first-quality, in season, branded apparel, accessories and footwear for the entire family as well as gift items and linens for the home all at everyday savings of 20% to 60% less than regular department and specialty store prices.

SOURCE Ross Stores, Inc.