Former McDonald's exec joins Chico's board

FORT MYERS — Chico's FAS has appointed Janice L. Fields to its board of directors, effective May 3, the company says in a statement. Fields' appointment will add one seat to the board, for a total number of nine members.

Fields served as president of McDonald's USA, a subsidiary of McDonald's Corp., from January 2010 through November 2012. She started as a crew member at the fast-food chain and worked in a variety of roles there, including chief operating officer and executive vice president.

Fields will also serve on Chico's corporate governance and nominating committee.

“Jan has deep experience with innovation and strategic insights in a world-class company,” Ross E. Roeder, Chico's chairman, says in the statement. “Jan's perspectives on growing a large retail organization while maintaining brand-right messaging and personal service will be highly valuable as we chart our path for future growth.”

Fort Myers-based Chico's (symbol: CHS, recent price: $18.33) operates several women's clothing brands, including Chico's, White House | Black Mark, Soma Intimates and Boston Proper.