BOB FUNK’S MEMO TO EXPRESS EMPLOYEES

Dear Express Family,

This morning I’m sending out my last communication as your Chairman/CEO.

After thirty-five years and countless milestone celebrations — #1 in light industrial / $3.46 Billion in sales / 546,000 employees / 4,000,000 hours / 800 offices / all-time highs in sales and gross margin — this current milestone is possibly the most challenging to face. As I look back, I am stirred by the tremendous successes we have shared together. Express is where it is today — a staffing industry behemoth — because of the contributions made by each and every one of you. I am humbled by what we’ve accomplished together ... putting people to work, giving them purpose, providing hope.

For the past several months, I have worked alongside leadership in an attempt to create a unified transition plan. Sadly, the ideas offered to help ensure a seamless transition were rejected. Now I am stepping down as CEO to a new role as your President and Executive Vice Chairman.

Going forward, my hope is we will all strive to maintain the drive and momentum that has generated such incredible growth, particularly over the past eight years. Although my role within Express is changing, my commitment to you and to your success will remain the same.

Thank you for your loyalty and dedication, your integrity and soaring spirit. There are no words to convey the depth of my gratitude. It has been my honor to lead this company — our company. I love this company and I love you. It has been my privilege to be your colleague and friend.

As we head into this Easter weekend, my prayer is that God will bless you and your families as richly as you have blessed me, and that He will continue to shine on the Express family as we work to make a difference in the lives of others.

With great appreciation,

Bob