Ex-Sears CEO takes top spot at sandwich chain

Aylwin B. Lewis, former CEO of Sears Holdings, will take on the role of president and CEO of Potbelly Sandwich Works, a nationwide chain of sandwich restaurants.

Lewis has an extensive background in the food service business. Prior to his role at Sears, he served as president and chief multi-branding and operating officer of Yum Brands, parent of Kentucky Fried Chicken, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. He also formerly served as chief operating officer of Pizza Hut, and he currently is a member of the board of directors for Walt Disney.

Lewis left Sears Holdings in February amid tumult at the retailer, which still is seeking a new CEO. W. Bruce Johnson has been serving as interim CEO of Sears Holdings since that time.

Most recently, Hoffman Estates, Ill.-based Sears swung to a net loss of $56 million in the first quarter, compared with net earnings of $223 million in the first quarter last year.

Sales for the quarter fell 5.3 percent to $11.07 billion from $11.7 billion in the same period last year.