Strouds makes exec promotions

Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 2/4/2002 12:00:00 AM

CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA —

Specialty retailer Strouds has has promoted Jeff Stroud to the new position of senior vp of stores, Internet and marketing. In addition, executives Ed Hakari and Pat Difani have also been promoted.

"Each of these managers demonstrates an ability to meet the expanding operating and creative needs of the new Strouds," said Rob Valone, president. "The continuing growth in store and Internet sales, improved merchandising and higher customer service and satisfaction directly reflect their contributions."

After serving as vp of store operations since May 2001, the company hopes Stroud will generate greater synergy among marketing, merchandising and store presentation in his new position. He will still report to Valone. Over the past 10 years, he has served in merchandising and marketing positions at the company, as well as spending over a year at the now-defunct ihome.com.

Hakari has been appointed to the new position of creative director from his position as district visual merchandiser, and he is now responsible for directing new signage and point-of-purchase merchandising programs. Before joining Strouds in 1998, he was visual merchandise manager for Macy's West and Gottschalks. He reports to Stroud.

Pat Difani, who will also report to Stroud, has been promoted to regional manager for stores after serving as district manager. She will oversee 28 stores in the California market.