MEMPHIS — Fred’s Inc. has appointed Jason Jenne as chief financial officer. He succeeds Rick Hans, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities.

Hans will remain in an advisory capacity until August 18 to ease Jenne’s transition.

“Jason’s leadership experience and in-depth knowledge of finance and operations ideally qualify him to be the next chief financial officer of Fred’s Pharmacy,” chief executive officer Mike Bloom stated “Jason is an integral member of our leadership team, and over the past year he and I have worked closely together as we navigated the proposed Rite Aid transaction, implemented a new health care strategy and pursued additional growth opportunities for Fred’s Pharmacy. “As we execute our plan, Jason’s strategic insight and financial expertise will be invaluable in our ongoing efforts to improve performance and create shareholder value.”

Jenne joined Fred’s last September as senior vice president of finance. Over the past 25 years, he held various executive leadership positions, most recently as president and CEO of True Temper Sports Inc.

In his new role, Jenne will lead financial and risk management at Fred’s and ensure the finance organization contributes to the execution of the company’s health care strategy.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to lead Fred’s Pharmacy’s financial team at this important stage in the company’s transformation,” he commented. “Fred’s is a company with significant growth potential and a strong team in place to drive shareholder value. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Mike and the rest of the senior leadership to accelerate the execution of the company’s business plan.”