Universal drops two execs in reorganization
By Thomas Russell -- Furniture Today, March 23, 2009
HIGH POINT — Case goods importer Universal Furniture has eliminated two positions as part of a reorganization the company announced last week.
It also has shifted a third executive into a newly created position to oversee brand management.
Stephen Giles, senior vice president of merchandising and Dave Pinamonti, senior vice president of marketing and sales, have left the company as part of the reorganization.
Giles joined Universal seven and a half years ago as vic9e president of merchandising. Previously, he had worked at manufacturers Lane, Henredon and Century.
Pinamonti came to Universal in March 2007 after stints at Broyhill, A-America and Stanley.
Kevin Miller, formerly national sales administration manager, has moved into a newly created position of brands manager. Reporting to President and CEO Jeff Scheffer, he will be charged with maximizing the sales potential of the Better Homes and Gardens and the recently announced Paula Deen Home brands (see story on page 1).
Scheffer said the reorganization is part of a plan to better align the Universal organization with the company's strategy. He said he was not at a point to discuss details of that strategy.
Scheffer said he will now take the lead role in merchandising. Pinamonti's responsibilities will be handled by two regional vice presidents who are company sales managers.
Contacted by Furniture/Today, Giles, a 20-plus year industry veteran, said he is considering his career options. Pinamonti was not available for comment.
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Universal Furniture cuts two executive positions
Mar 20, 2009
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