Natuzzi SpA announced that it has named Joseph Mussallem president, North American Team, Natuzzi Americas, Inc. He replaces Cary Benson who left the company in December of 2009.
Most recently, Mussallem was senior vice president of sales, responsible for national accounts, Natuzzi Editions and Italsofa brands.
“Joe has led the sales charge and has a proven track record of success,” said Cosimo Cavallo, chief commercial officer, Natuzzi SpA. “He will lead Natuzzi North America out of what has been a very challenging economic period and will continue to provide the necessary direction and guidance for the growth of our organization.”
Mussallem will focus his efforts in 2010 on new organizational initiatives which include dedicated teams for each of three brands under the Natuzzi Group brand umbrella, a focus on logistics and product delivery, and branding opportunities with the company’s retail partners. He reports directly to Cavallo.
Brad Cates, who joined the company in February as vice president of the Natuzzi Italy brand, is now senior vice president, Natuzzi Italy Team, in charge of both sales and marketing. He reports to Mussallem.
Mussallem’s remaining direct reports include three vice presidents, sales and marketing, for the East, Southwest, and North regions: Peter Halunen, Matthew Hayward, and Craig Ruse, respectively; Amy Mock, assistant brand manager, and Luigi Nocci, key customer account executive, both on the Natuzzi Editions and Italsofa Team; and Shannon McKaughn, sales administrator, North American Team.