* J.C. Penney Co. said it named...

* J.C. Penney Co. said it named James E. Oesterreicher president of JCPenney stores and catalogue units. The position is a new one and will become effective June 1.

The Dallas-based retailer also reported that Robert B. Gill, vice chairman and chief operating officer of JCPenney stores and catalogue, is retiring on June 1 after a 39-year career with the company.

A new office of the chairman will include chairman William R. Howell, and Oesterreicher, W. Barger Tygart, executive vice president and chief financial officer Robert E. Northam, and executive vice president and director of support services Terry S. Prindiville.