Callahan to Serve as Classic Brands’ First CFO

June 29, 2018  by Jason Schneider in Business Strategy, Executive Changes, Industry   

In the newly-created position, he will report to Michael Zippelli, CEO of Classic Brands.

Callahan was executive vice president and chief financial officer at Serta Simmons Bedding from 2010-2015, where he was responsible for all finance functions and information technology for both the Serta and Simmons brands. While there, he oversaw the 2012 sale of the company to the private equity firm Advent International.

“As our business has continued to grow and become more diverse, we needed more depth and experience in our finance team. Brian has terrific experience in complex organizations and we believe that will greatly enhance our business as we expand,” Zippelli said.

After leaving Serta Simmons Bedding, Callahan became chief financial officer and chief marketing officer of healthcare start-up Smile Direct Club, and most recently was a professor of accounting at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.

“I really enjoyed my time in the sleep products industry, so I was excited to return when this opportunity arose. Mike has built a strong dynamic company, and I am proud to be a part of its next stage of growth,” Callahan said.