Kurt Darrow named chairman of La-Z-Boy

Succeeds James Johnston, who is retiring after 20 years as director

Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, May 6, 2011

MONROE, Mich. — Kurt Darrow has been named chairman of La-Z-Boy's board of directors, succeeding James W. Johnston, who is retiring.

Kurt Darrow

Darrow retains his position as president and CEO of the manufacturer, importer and retailer.

The company also said Richard M. Gabrys has been appointed lead director of the 12-member board.

The board amended the company's bylaws to provide for annual elections of all directors for one-year terms. The change will be phased in starting with annual shareholders' meeting at company headquarters here Aug. 24.

Johnston, 72, has been a director since 1991 and chairman since 2006.

Darrow, 56, has been a director since 2003, when he was named president and CEO. He has worked for La-Z-Boy since 1979.

Gabrys, 69, has been on La-Z-Boy's board since 2006. He also sits on the boards of CMS Energy Corp., Massey Energy Co. and TriMas Corp., and was previously vice chairman of Deloitte & Touche.

Darrow said Johnston has provided "sage counsel to our company" as the industry underwent changes.

"We are grateful to Jim for the role he has played in establishing a strong platform for our company in this environment. He will be missed by his many colleagues at La-Z-Boy, and we wish him all the best in retirement," Darrow said.