Martin Home Furnishings names Edward Andrew president

Has served on company's executive committee

Thomas Russell -- Furniture Today, May 6, 2010

Edward Andrew

SAN DIEGO — Case goods importer Martin Home Furnishings has named Edward Andrew, a member of its executive committee since last year, as its president.

Company founder Gil Martin, who had served as president and CEO, will retain the CEO title and will focus less on day-to-day operations and more on business strategy. Martin also will still have a role in product development and will help oversee large national accounts, including warehouse clubs.

Andrew has more than 20 years of experience managing consumer product manufacturers, the company said. He was most recently CEO of NiteRider Technical Lighting Systems since 2004, and was president and CEO of DriveCam Video Systems from 1999 to 2004. Earlier, he worked in management consulting for Ernst & Young.

In his new role, he reports to Gil Martin.

"Bringing Ed on board is the most recent step in our growth plan," Martin said in a statement. "Solving all the challenges growth brings is a full-time job, for which he is certainly qualified."

Andrew said his service on the company's executive committee has helped him learn about the industry.

"I felt comfortable with the company's business philosophy and them with mine," Andrew said in a statement. "Productive efforts began almost immediately the day I joined the company. Impressed with their aggressive growth plans, especially during a recession, I seized the opportunity to make a contribution to the company's future success. I feel at home and I am excited to be here."