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EXHIBIT 99.1
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ST. JOHN
FOR: St. John Knits International,
Incorporated
For Immediate Release CONTACT: Roger G. Ruppert
--------------------- Chief Financial Officer
(949) 863-1171
H.W. MULLINS NAMED CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF ST. JOHN
IRVINE, California, (January 4, 2001) - St. John Knits International,
Incorporated today announced the appointment of H.W. Mullins as Chief Executive
Officer. Mullins joins St. John from Neiman Marcus, where he most recently
served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Neiman Marcus Stores. He will
assume his new position later this month when he succeeds Bob Gray who will
continue as Chairman.
"I have known Hugh for several years and am delighted that he has decided to
join St. John," said Bob Gray. "His experience at Neiman's speaks for itself.
Not only has he compiled an impressive track record as an operating executive
and a merchant, but he has also demonstrated the ability to develop managerial
talent and motivate employees to perform."
"Neiman Marcus has been a valued customer and partner for more than twenty years
and continues to be one of our major accounts," said Gray. "We would do nothing
to jeopardize that relationship; however, when Hugh announced he was leaving
Neimans, we could not pass up the opportunity to add a superstar to our team."
Mullins, 49, joined Neiman Marcus in 1991 as Vice President, Divisional
Merchandise Manager, after holding merchandising and stores posts at Macy's San
Francisco and Foley's in Houston. He held several positions of increasing
responsibilities at Neiman's including Senior Vice President and General
Merchandise Manager and Executive Vice President, Merchandising. In February
2000, he was named Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Neiman Marcus Stores,
a position he held until January 1, 2001.
The Company, headquarters in Irvine, California, is a leading designer,
manufacturer and marketer of women's clothing and accessories, sold principally
under the St. John, Griffith & Gray and Marie Gray trade names. In addition,
the Company's Retail Division operates twenty-three retail boutiques and ten
outlets stores. Through a wholly owned subsidiary, St. John Home, the Company
also operates three home furnishing stores.
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