Turning In His Apron

Larry Mercer, a 23-year veteran of The Home Depot (Atlanta) who was executive vp in charge of store operations, has announced he will retire later this year. He will remain with the company as an advisor to the chairman and ceo until February 2004.

Troy Rice, a 12-year Home Depot veteran, has been promoted to senior vp, operations, assuming the responsibilities previously handled by Mercer. Rice has been a store manager, district manager and regional vp, and most recently served as division president, Northwest (located in Seattle).