Bill Wittenberg to succeed J.B. Davis as Klaussner CEO

Davis to remain chairman of company's board

Ray Allegrezza -- Furniture Today, April 6, 2010

J.B. Davis

ASHEBORO, N.C. — After a successful 40-year run at Klaussner Home Furnishings, J.B. Davis is stepping down as president and CEO.

He will remain with the company during a 90-day transition period in order to transfer his responsibilities to industry veteran Bill Wittenberg, who has been named as his successor.

After his retirement, Davis will continue to chair the company's board of advisors.

"We have undergone a significant transition at Klaussner over the past two years and I believe that we have positioned the company to grow and prosper once again.... Bill brings a tremendous background of success in the industry and will help us complete the repositioning of the business," Davis said.

Wittenberg was president and CEO of Berkline/BenchCraft until March 2009. Klaussner officials said his leadership was critical in stabilizing that company and guiding it through its sale to Sun Capital Partners.

Bill Wittenberg

Wittenberg said in a statement, "I am excited to have the opportunity to work with Klaussner and am honored to be chosen to replace J.B. Davis; Klaussner has long been one of the premier furniture manufacturers in the United States and J.B. has long been one of the industry's leading executives. His vision and leadership will continue to be an important strategic resource for me and the company as we navigate the challenging landscape that is the furniture industry today."