Cree announces that Darren Jackson, most recently the Chief Executive Officer of Advance Auto Parts (AAP), a position he held from January 2008 to January 2016, has been appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors, effective May 3, 2016.

 “Darren is a great addition to our Board of Directors,” said Chuck Swoboda, Cree chairman and CEO. “He has a proven track record leading large companies through industry transitions and we welcome the opportunity to work with Darren as we pursue our mission to build the most valuable lighting technology company.”

Jackson originally joined AAP as a member of the AAP Board in July 2004. Jackson also served as AAP President from January 2008 to January 2009 and from January 2012 to April 2013. Prior to becoming AAP’s Chief Executive Officer, Jackson served in various executive positions with Best Buy, a specialty retailer of consumer electronics, office products, appliances and software, ultimately serving from July 2007 to December 2007 as Executive Vice President of Customer Operating Groups. Jackson joined Best Buy in 2000 and was appointed as its Executive Vice President-Finance and Chief Financial Officer in February of 2001. Prior to 2000, he served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Nordstrom, Full-line Stores, a fashion specialty retailer, and held various senior positions, including Chief Financial Officer of Carson Pirie Scott & Company, a regional department store company. Jackson has also served as a director of Fastenal Company, which sells industrial and construction supplies, since July 2012.

Jackson has a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Marquette University. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of Marquette.