The 56-year old Gromek comes to Warnaco with a proven track record, starting with President and CEO of Brooks Brothers where during his seven-year tenure, Gromek successfully implemented a strategic plan that revitalized the company's business.

Gromek was directly responsible for broadening Brooks Brother's product range and expanding its traditional customer base.

Moreover, Gromek augmented the brand's global presence through airport retailing, licensing ventures, e-commerce and targeted regional partnerships.

Taking the helm at Warnaco will be a challenge. The company just emerged from bankruptcy in February 4, 2003.

Warnaco is on its way up though. Prior to its emergence from bankruptcy, the company had approximately $2.2 billion in debt. Post emergence, the manufacturing giant has approximately $246.4 million in debt.

For 2002, Warnaco's net revenues was posted at $1,493.0 million, compared to $1,671.3 million in fiscal 2001.

Gross profit also increase, with a reported $440.3 million in 2002 compared to gross profit of $296.9 million, in 2001.

The company also reported that there was an improvement in net loss, posting $163.2 million net loss in 2002, compared to net loss of $861.2 million 2001.

Tony Alvarez, outgoing President and CEO of Warnaco, and whom Gromek will be replacing, said, "We are excited for Joe to join Warnaco. In addition to a proven track record in retail leadership, Joe brings a world-class skill set in marketing, brand management and product innovation that is directly applicable to Warnaco."

Tony Alvarez, as previously announced, will return to Alvarez & Marsal, a leading turnaround and crisis management consulting firm he co-founded.