Marietta, Ga.—Following the recent and unexpected passing of Dave Gheesling, FEI Group’s founder, the group’s board of directors met to solidify management changes within the organization. The board of directors announced Andy Hogan has been appointed to the role of CEO and Graham Howerton to the role of president.
Gheesling, who held the title of president and CEO, did a tremendous job building a team of talented professionals who will continue to run FEI Group successfully into the future.
As co-founder of FEI, Hogan is a trusted and well-respected member of the floor covering industry and has been with the organization since its inception. He is intimately involved in the full scope of business operations. The strong relationships he has formed with FEI members, vendors and the internal FEI team provide both a solid foundation and the continuity in leadership to continue the forward momentum in the business.
Howerton has served the organization in varying capacities throughout his 16-year tenure, most recently as executive vice president. Howerton’s knowledge of the industry, FEI’s business and day-to-day operations, as well as the relationships he has forged within the industry over the years, will continue to benefit the company as he takes on a larger role as president.
The FEI team remains strong, with Randy McNatt (CFO), Brian Penabad (vice president of FEI Group & president of KBx & K&B Alliance), Allison Rea (vice president of marketing) and the newest business leader, Mark Erdman (SVP of Exterior Contractor Alliance) in place. Eddie Schukar (VP of KBx and K&B Alliance) and Earl Ward (VP of Exterior Contractor Alliance) are very valuable members of the team, while Tonya Land (executive assistant) and Jeanine Ortega (assistant to the CFO) remain at the heart of the organization.
FEI Group said it looks forward to announcing the addition of new, energetic members to the team in the near future.