Sherwin-Williams Names Lauren West to Color Marketing Post

July 13, 2017  by Larry Thomas in Executive Changes, Industry   

In her new post, West will be based in Greensboro, N.C., at Sherwin-Williams Global Color and Design Center, which is a full-service design studio, application center and technical lab serving the wood industry with customized support for every step of the finishing process.                       

“Lauren’s extensive background in furniture and interior merchandising, design, education and marketing will be a valuable asset to our wood finishing operation and in our customers’ businesses. We are excited to welcome her to our growing team of experts dedicated to providing industry-leading finishing solutions,” said Dennis Karnstein, president and general manager of Sherwin-Williams’ industrial wood coatings division.

West began her career in furniture and interiors as a showroom/gallery interior designer for upholstery producer Rowe Furniture, a buyer at Wayside Furniture and a merchandise manager for Bassett Furniture, where she renovated and re-merchandised corporate showrooms, stores and galleries.

At the same time, West started her own business, Interior Design Services, LLC, where she consulted for residential and commercial projects.

For 15 years, West directed merchandising, design, education and communication efforts for Natuzzi Group. And most recently, she headed product development and brand management for upholstery and accent furniture resource Uttermost.

At Sherwin-Williams, West will be responsible for global color, design and marketing efforts for the kitchen cabinets, furniture, building products, flooring, architectural millwork and specialty wood product market segments.

Along with a team of color stylists, she will oversee color trend and lifestyle monitoring, research and analysis to assist customers around the world as they select coatings to optimize retail appeal.

“I’m thrilled to join Sherwin-Williams because of the company’s commitment to ensuring customers gain a competitive edge by identifying and achieving the right color and finish for their products,” said West. “I look forward to bringing my passion for interior design to help designers and manufacturers realize their full market potential.”