Industry & Services >> CEO Interviews >> February 27, 2002
MARK E. SPEESE has served as Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer of Rent-A-Center, Inc., since October 2001 and
has served as one of its Directors since 1990. Mr. Speese
previously served as Vice Chairman from September 1999 until
March 2001. From 1990 until April 1999, Mr. Speese served as
President. Mr. Speese also served as Chief Operating Officer from
November 1994 until March 1999. From the company's inception in
1986 until 1990, Mr. Speese served as a Vice President
responsible for its New Jersey operations. Prior to joining the
company, Mr. Speese was a regional manager for Thorn Americas
from 1979 to 1986. Profile
TWST: Would you begin with an overview of Rent-A-Center and give us asketch of the evolution of the company?
Mr. Speese: We are in what is commonly referred to as the 'rent-to-own'
industry.