Scalamandré Silks taps Iommazzo for president
By Susan M. Andrews -- Furniture Today, September 10, 2007
New York — Luxury fabric source Scalamandré Silks has named Robert Iommazzo as its president, the first time in 80 years that the company has appointed a non-family member to head the company.
Mark Bitter and Robert Bitter will be co-CEOs of the company founded by their grandfather. Previously, they were co-presidents.
Mark Bitter will continue to be responsible for sales, marketing, new business development and strategic planning. Robert Bitter will continue to manage product development, design, restoration, trim manufacturing and the Scalamandré Art Studio and Archives.
"Bob Iommazzo is ideally suited to lead Scalamandré's charge as a global luxury home furnishings company," said Mark Bitter. "As we increase our product mix and move into the next phase of our broader expansion strategy, Bob's experience will be invaluable for helping to spearhead our growth."
Scalamandré sells its fabric, wall coverings, furniture and trim through its 22 company and agent showrooms. The company plans to enter new product categories and diversify its distribution channels. Iommazzo also will explore strategic alliances and financial partners.
Iommazzo brings more than 35 years of experience in finance and senior management positions. Most recently he was a principal in NachmanHaysBrownstein, a regional consulting and restructuring firm specializing in assisting companies with the development and implementation of their business plan and related financing needs.
Earlier, he was president and CEO of giftware supplier Papel Freelance, a subsidiary of publicly held Russ Berrie & Co., and did consulting work as a partner at Coopers & Lybrand.
