Seven & I Holdings Co., Japan's biggest retailer, said Yukio Fujimaki, head of the clothing division at its Ito-Yokado chain, resigned Monday because of poor health.
The 47-year-old executive will be replaced by Yoshiyuki Yamaguchi, senior executive officer and manager of Ito-Yokado's general operations division, spokesman Hirotake Henmi said.
Fujimaki was hired from department store operator Isetan Co. in April 2005 as Seven & I sought to expand sales of clothing. Ito-Yokado, which sells groceries and general merchandise, accounted for 28 percent of the Tokyo-based company's revenue in the first quarter.
Fujimaki will continue to lead Seven & I Institute, the clothing design unit, and remain a board member of Ito-Yokado.