The Board of Directors of Rent-A-Center, Inc. announced the resignation of Robert D. Davis as Chief Executive Officer and director effective immediately. Board Chairman Mark E. Speese, the Company's founder and former chief executive officer, will serve as interim CEO of the Company until a permanent successor has been named. Mr. Speese has served as the Company's Chairman of the Board since October 2001 and as a Board director since 1990.

He served as the Company's Chief Executive Officer from October 2001 until January 2014. Mr. Speese previously served as Vice Chairman from September 1999 until March 2001. From 1990 until April 1999, Mr. Speese served as President, and he also served as Chief Operating Officer from November 1994 until March 1999.

As a founder of Rent-A-Center, Mr. Speese brings a tremendous knowledge of the business and a strategic vision for the Company. Mr. Davis has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company since February 2014. From February 2008 until February 2014, Mr. Davis also served as the Company's Executive Vice President – Finance.

From September 1999 until February 2008, Mr. Davis also served as the Company's Senior Vice President – Finance. From September 1998 until September 1999, Mr. Davis also served as the Company's Vice President – Finance and Treasurer. Mr. Davis began his employment with the Company in 1993.