Sterling Jewelers Inc., the largest specialty jewelry retailer in the country, has promoted Robert Knapp to senior vice president of Corporate Supply Chain Management and Distribution, SDCE reported.

In his new role, Knapp will continue to lead Sterling Jewelers' expanding supply chain management department, as well as assume senior-level oversight of the Distribution Center, Supply Warehouse and SJI Repair Center.

Over the past two years, Knapp has been instrumental in launching the company's supply chain management initiatives and has strengthened the operational performance in his other areas of responsibility.

Knapp has been with Sterling Jewelers Inc. since 1982. He previously served as vice president of Corporate Supply Chain Management. Before that, Knapp served as vice president and director of Purchasing.

"Bob's advancement is a direct reflection of his successful efforts and further demonstrates the strategic importance Sterling is placing on disciplined supply chain management practices," said Mark Light, president and CEO of Sterling Jewelers Inc. "His commitment and dedication have been, and will continue to be, invaluable to our company."

Sterling Jewelers Inc. operates 1,307 stores in all 50 states and employs more than 15,000 associates. Sterling trades under national brands, including "Kay Jewelers" and "jared the galleria of jewelry," as well as a variety of regional names. Sterling is the U.S. division of London-based Signet Group plc, making it part of the largest specialty jewelry retailer in the world.