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Southerland Names 18-Year Industry Vet As EVP of Operations

Furniture World News Desk on 7/7/2020


Independent mattress producer Southerland announced that it has named bedding industry veteran Michael Prude executive vice president of operations. He spent the last 18 years  at  Serta Simmons Bedding where he most recently managed operations for 11 factories in the company’s Southern Region. At Southerland, he will oversee the day-to-day operations and supply chain management for its network of six U.S. production facilities.

Prude reports to Bryan Smith, president and chief executive officer of Southerland.

“Mike is one of the most experienced professionals on the operations side of our business and we welcome his vision and leadership into our organization as we continue to strengthen our national manufacturing footprint,” said Smith.

“Southerland has built a great reputation for being one of the premier independent producers in the country, bringing exceptional quality, service and value to its customers. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with a highly-regarded leadership team to help the business reach new milestones,” Prude said.  

Prude, a native of the U.K, holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Wales and he currently lives in Hendersonville, North Carolina, with his wife.


About Southerland: Southerland has been making quality mattresses in the U.S. since 1893. Using only best-in-class materials and components, Southerland currently sells its line of mattresses and adjustable bases throughout 43 states. By implementing its stringent quality assurance program, Southerland manufactures mattresses that are backed by the company’s “making it right” philosophy that stands behind every product delivered. Each of its products is delivered to retailers via its wholly-owned transportation company. The company’s six production and distribution facilities in Nashville, Tennessee; Phoenix, Arizona; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Tualatin, Oregon, total more than 470,000 square feet.