Glen Raven Inc. has introduced an updated operating structure that creates an even greater focus on each of the key fabric markets it serves. The company has combined its fabric brands, including Sunbrella, GlenGuard, Dickson, Sur Last and others, under a new Glen Raven Material Solutions Group.
Within the group, the company has created new business units tailored to serve specific markets. David Swers, president of the new Glen Raven Material Solutions Group, will oversee the group, and its new business units will be led by experienced Glen Raven executives:
- Suzie Roberts, vice president and general manager of the Furnishings Business Unit, will lead the team focused on fabrics for furniture, cushions, umbrellas and other related applications.
- Katherine Carter, vice president and general manager of the Shade & Marine Business Unit, will lead the team focused on fabrics for marine and shade applications, including awnings.
- Patti Bates, vice president and general manager of the Protective Business Unit, will lead the team in expanding the company’s GlenGuard fabrics used for protective workwear.
- Eugene Deleplanque, president and director general Europe, will lead a fourth business unit based in France to support customers in the European market.
The company says the purpose of the business units in the new Glen Raven Material Solutions Group is to further improve the company’s existing support for customers through programs and strategies that are customized to the needs of each market. The company’s sales teams will continue to support their customers as part of the new business units, meaning customers will not experience any disruptions during the transition.
Trivantage is not affected and will continue to operate as a stand-alone division within Glen Raven, as will the company’s other businesses.
Along with this updated structure, the company reduced salaried staff in North America by less than 4% because of the challenging economic conditions.
