Wilkesboro, NC, Nov. 12—Lowe's Companies has promoted Michael K. Brown to senior vice president of store operations for its western division. A 17 year Lowe's veteran, Brown served the company most recently as vice president of specialty sales with responsibility for commercial, installed and special order sales.

"Mike has consistently demonstrated his leadership ability in a wide variety of key roles throughout his career," said executive vice president of operations Larry Stone. "Broad perspective and experience as both an operator and a merchant at Lowe's make Mike uniquely qualified for the challenge of running Lowe's largest growth division."

Prior to his role as vice president of specialty sales, Brown was regional vice president of the company's northeast division. He was also merchandising vice president for lawn and garden products.

Brown replaces William D. Pelon, who recently announced his retirement after 31 years with the company.

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