COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 7, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) today announced the promotion of Timothy A. Johnson to Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Johnson has served as CFO since 2012 with primary responsibility for all financial disciplines within the company including financial reporting and controls, treasury, risk management, tax, internal audit, financial planning and analysis, and investor relations. Over the last several months, his role has expanded significantly to include responsibility for the company's real estate strategy and administration along with the asset protection of its stores, distribution centers, and offices. Mr. Johnson is a member of the Executive Leadership Team and assists in charting the company's strategic direction.<br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br />Commenting on today's announcement, CEO David Campisi stated, "Throughout my career, I have always found the key to success comes down to people, and TJ is a great example. He has been a trusted business partner to me over the last ten months as we reposition our business, and he has been an invaluable contributor to Big Lots for well over a decade. TJ's knowledge of retail operations and general business acumen have been crucial as we develop our strategic plan for the next three years. I am thrilled, and extremely proud, to announce a much deserved promotion."<br /><br />Mr. Johnson will continue to report to Mr. Campisi.<br /><br />Johnson has a leadership role in the company's philanthropic efforts at Nationwide Children's Hospital. He joined Big Lots in 2000 as Director of Strategic Planning and was promoted to Vice President, Strategic Planning and Investor Relations in February 2004. He was promoted to Senior Vice President, Finance in July 2011, and to SVP, Chief Financial Officer in August 2012.<br /><br />Johnson holds a bachelor's degree in business from Miami University with an accounting major, and earned his CPA while working for Coopers and Lybrand.<br /><br />About Big Lots<br /><br />Big Lots is America's largest broadline closeout retailer, operating 1,495 BIG LOTS stores in 48 states.