Eitel Steps Down At Simmons

September 30, 2008  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in Bedding on October 2008 After almost eight years, Charlie Eitel is stepping down as chairman and CEO of Simmons Bedding Company and is handing the leadership reins to Steve Fendrich, who became president and chief operating officer in January. Eitel will assume the role of vice chairman of the board of directors.

Fendrich will oversee all aspects of Simmons’ operations, and he will report to a newly formed executive committee composed of David Jones, Joseph Messner and Scott Schoen.

Last year, Eitel was elected chairman of the International Sleep Products Association. In that role, he has led a marketing initiative that could result in top mattress producers jointly funding a consumer awareness campaign extolling the benefits of purchasing a new mattress. The effort to a step forward in August with the hiring of the Leo Burnett ad agency to draw up a preliminary campaign. At that time, officials said the industry must agree on an equitable funding mechanism before moving ahead.

In an announcement Tuesday of his move to a new role at Simmons, Eitel said, “During my tenure, I have seen this great company expand its position as the mattress industry leader in innovation and quality through the continued development of key brands. ... I look forward to my new role as vice chairman of the board of directors, helping Steve and his leadership team continue to promote our products to Simmons’ customers around the world.”

Fendrich said, “I am excited by the opportunities ahead of us at Simmons. ... Simmons will continue to be an industry leader, shaping the mattress landscape with next-generation technologies for better sleep.”