THQ Inc. (NASDAQ: THQI) yesterday announced the appointment of Paul J. Pucino as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.

Pucino brings extensive financial leadership, corporate development and investor relations experience to THQ. Prior to joining THQ, Pucino was executive vice president and CFO of Classmates Media Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of United Online. From 2005 to 2007, Pucino was CFO of publicly traded internet services company Digital Insight, which was merged with Intuit in February 2007. Previously, Pucino served as executive vice president and CFO of Tekelec, a publicly traded developer of internet and telecommunications networking equipment.

“Paul’s strong financial leadership, corporate strategy expertise and deep experience with technology companies will be invaluable as we execute on our recently announced strategic plan and business realignment actions,” said Brian Farrell, president and CEO, THQ.

“THQ has strong franchises and a solid strategy,” said Pucino. “I look forward to working with Brian and the rest of THQ’s management team to implement the necessary changes to improve THQ’s competitive position and profitability.”

A Certified Public Accountant, Pucino earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Tampa and an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago.

Pucino replaces Colin Slade who remains on an indefinite medical leave of absence.