IBC takes team approach
By David Perry -- Furniture Today, April 10, 2005
Fort Lauderdale, Fla. — Neil Ellman learned about the power of building a strong team from a legendary bedding figure: His father, Leon.
"Leon has been the life-blood of IBC," commented one company executive.
Leon Ellman steadily expanded the business since he launched the company in the United States in the early 1970s. Neil Ellman, Leon's oldest son, joined the family-owned business in the early 1990s and has continued the growth mode.
Neil, 35, who is now president, continues to benefit from the insights offered by Leon, who remains chairman and CEO.
"I have put together the best team that I can," Neil said. "That is the big reason for our growth. We have the right people in the right places and we have a clear plan of attack and growth. We are moving from a more entrepreneurial company to a more professional structure."
"We have built our team for the future," added Lance Ellman, 31, Neil's brother, who is executive vice president of operations. "Everyone has the same focus. Everyone has learned our philosophies and that has also helped us grow."
The management team includes veterans with plenty of industry experience. Scott Miller, national vice president of sales, formerly worked at Simmons, as did Tom Saladin, vice president of purchasing. Joe Vera, vice president of manufacturing, formerly worked at Sealy, as did Brent Newby, national quality manager.
Eric Johnson, vice president of merchandising and marketing, came from a retail background.
Other key executives include Kevin Sirop, chief financial officer, Steve D'Eliseo, chief information officer, and Gary Parr, controller.
While Neil and Lance Ellman now both play key roles at IBC, they stay in close contact with their father.
"He keeps the entrepreneurial spirit alive," Neil commented.
And Leon adds a seasoned perspective. "If there is a major decision, we like to get his thoughts," Neil said. "He has the experience."
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