Turlinski New Goody’s CEO

NEW YORK – Charles (Chuck) Turlinski has been named chief executive officer of Goody’s Family Clothing, the family apparel store based in Knoxville, Tenn. His appointment is effective Feb. 14.

Turlinski resigned as CEO of Limited Brands’ Limited Stores division on Jan. 11 to pursue other opportunities. Prior to his departure earlier this month, Turlinski had spent 10 years with Limited Brands in senior management positions for its New York & Co and Express units. He became CEO of the Limited division in 2003.

 Charles (Chuck) Turlinski

As CEO, Turlinski will succeed Isaac Dabah, who continues as chairman of Goody’s and CEO of GMM Capital, which led the private-equity acquisition of Goody’s one year ago.

“Chuck’s bench strength in the specialty store arena combined with his leadership skills will be instrumental as we move the company forward,” Dabah said.

Turlinski commented, “Goody’s has a strong foundation and critical mass. It will be the new management team’s challenge to build on this base. The brand’s heritage in Main Street America, a strong real estate footprint throughout the South and several new initiatives on the horizon make for exciting times ahead.”

Turlinski’s background includes leading two initial public offerings (IPOs). Before joining Limited, he was associated with Federated Direct. He’s also received considerable press for his support of politicians as varied as President Bush and Senators Hillary Rodham Clinton and Joe Lieberman.

Goody’s operates 385 stores in 21 US states. It carries national brands as well as exclusive labels and is the owner of the Duck Head trademark and the exclusive retailer of the brand.