Sealy names former Whirlpool exec chief marketing officer

Jodi Allen brings ‘right mix' to role, says CEO

David Perry -- Furniture Today, September 10, 2009

TRINITY, N.C. — Bedding major Sealy has hired former Whirlpool Corp. executive Jodi Allen as senior vice president and chief marketing officer.

Sealy said Allen joins the company with 20 years of strategic marketing and product development experience, as well as experience working with retailers.

"Jodi brings the right mix to the senior marketing role," said Larry Rogers, Sealy's president and CEO. "We were looking for someone with not only a brand marketing background, but someone who understands the key role our retailers play in our business. Jodi fit the bill perfectly."

In 14 years at Whirlpool, Allen served in roles of increasing responsibility in marketing, finance and management, internationally and domestically.

She was most recently general manager for Whirlpool's dishwasher business in North America. She was responsible for marketing, product development, supply chain management, pricing, promotion and forecasting for the Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Jenn-Air and Amana brands dishwasher business.

"My experience at Whirlpool gave me tremendous insight on the importance of strong retail relationships," Allen said. "These partnerships are central to our business. I look forward to developing new products and marketing campaigns that support our retail partners and consumers."

The senior marketing position has been vacant at Sealy since earlier this year, when Philip Dobbs left the company.