Changes in key management positions

Sears has filled two top leadership positions in its hardlines business. Beryl Buley, 42, has been named as the new senior vice president/general manager, home stores. He comes most recently from Kohl's, the department store chain. He will in future be responsible for approximately 1 300 off-mall stores including dealer stores, Sears Hardware, Orchard Supply Hardware, Sears Outlet stores, Sears Appliance and Hardware stores, builders' merchants McPhail's and Florida Builders, and National Tire and Battery as well. His predecessor, Dan Laughlin, 53, has been promoted to senior vice president/general merchandise manager of appliances and electronics. Sears has also announced the retirement of Lyle Heidemann, executive vice president/general manager of home and off-mall stores, who is thereby concluding a 36-year career with the company.