Goodman Promoted, Founder Stork Returns to Mattress Firm

January 24, 2011  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in Executive Changes on January 25, 2011

Mattress specialty retailer Mattress Firm has promoted Jason Goodman to director of multi-channel business development, a new role.

In addition, founder Paul Stork has returned to the company as manager of franchising.

Goodman oversees the multi-channel sales department, as well as maintain oversight and overall responsibility of the franchising department. His added focus includes expanding and growing the company into new revenue channels that provide untapped or underdeveloped opportunities. Most recently, Goodman served as manager of franchising and in two years grew the department from 52 franchise locations to 78 locations. He strengthened the franchise foundation with a keen focus on growth, consistency and clear standard operating procedures to prepare for more aggressive expansion in 2011.

"Jason has been a key player in expanding the Mattress Firm brand and, as we continue our strategy for growth, his role in the niche markets of franchise and external revenue streams will prove to be instrumental in establishing Mattress Firm as the number one specialty mattress retailer in the nation," said Steve Stagner, CEO of Mattress Firm, Houston.

Stork, one of Mattress Firm's three founders, returns as manager of franchising and will work closely with Goodman on the growth of the department. Stork has day-to-day responsibility for assisting the current franchise owners in the growth and development of their businesses. He has a long-standing relationship with many franchise partners and vendors, which allows for a seamless transition into the role. Additionally, Stork will pursue new franchise markets and implement best practices across the network.

"I am excited to be back and see how much Mattress Firm has grown since it started in 1986. I am particularly excited to be part of the franchising department because it gives me a chance to re-connect with old friends and business partners and interact with all functions of the company," said Stork. "Additionally, it provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs to grow a successful, profitable business from a model that has continued to evolve since Harry Roberts, Steve Fendrich and I started the company 25 years ago."

Stork co-founded Mattress Firm with Roberts and Fendrich in Houston. He served as president for 15 years and led the sales, merchandising and operations functions. His return to the organization completes the homecoming for all three founders: Roberts rejoined in January 2010 in a franchise development role and Fendrich recently returned as chief strategy officer in September 2010.

"We are thrilled to have all three founders of Mattress Firm back with us in roles that are centered on our growth," said Stagner. "You can feel their passion for Mattress Firm when they enter a room and they have a tremendous amount of industry knowledge that will help propel future growth."

Mattress Firm has more than 600 stores across 22 states.