Classic Brands Hires Mark Owen for New EVP Post

November 28, 2017  by Larry Thomas in Executive Changes, Industry   

Owen has nearly 30 years of experience in sales and marketing of leading mattress brands. Most recently, he was senior vice president for strategic business development at Serta Simmons Bedding, a post he had held since 2014.

In his new role, Owen will oversee Classic’s sales organization and strategic growth in its new and existing channels of distribution.

“Mark is a great addition to our leadership team. His extensive experience in developing and growing brands will be an invaluable asset as Classic continues to expand,” said Michael Zippelli, Classic Brands CEO. “Mark’s depth in sales, marketing, strategy development and customer relationships is legendary in the bedding industry, and we’re certain his impact here will be immediate.”

During his career at Simmons, Owen held a number of key management positions, including senior vice president of brand management, vice president of brand management and managing director. He was instrumental in the development of the upper-end Beautyrest Black brand.

Owen started his career in the mattress industry with Slumberland of England in 1991 and led the brand’s move into the U.S.

“Mike and I have known each other for many years, and I have watched him build Classic into one of the most formidable specialty sleep product companies in the industry,” Owen said. “After so many years with large corporations, I was looking to do something more entrepreneurial and was thrilled when Mike asked me to join his organization.”