NEWARK, Calif., March 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Ross Stores, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROST) announced today that Michael Hamilton, 52, has joined the company as Senior Vice President, Stores. Mr. Hamilton will be located in the company's Newark, California headquarters and will report directly to the President and Chief Operating Officer, Mel Wilmore. Jim Jacobs, who has served as Senior Vice President, Stores, since 1988, will be retiring at the end of the month.

Before joining Ross, Mr. Hamilton served as Executive Vice President, Operations, for Hill's Department Stores since 1996. During his tenure there, he was responsible for stores, logistics, real estate, construction, store systems and field merchandising. Prior to Hills, Mr. Hamilton spent 23 years with Venture Stores, most recently as Executive Vice President of Stores.

In commenting, Michael Balmuth, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "We are delighted to have Michael Hamilton join the Ross senior management team. His in-depth retail management experience directing a broad base of operational functions for value-oriented retailers will be an important resource for Ross Stores as we continue to develop and fine-tune initiatives to enhance our opportunities for continued growth."

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.