Simmons Bedding Co. has appointed Jim Ruehlmann executive vice president of product development.
In the newly created position, Ruehlmann is responsible for developing and executing the company’s new product creation and innovation agenda. He reports to Gary Fazio, chief executive officer of the Atlanta–based bedding producer.
“The addition of this executive–level position and the restructuring of this function is a testament to Simmons’ commitment to ongoing innovation,” Fazio said. “Jim’s vast experience, coupled with a renewed focus on our processes, will help us to take our product development efforts to the next level and deliver the most innovative products to our retailers and, ultimately, provide a better sleep experience to consumers.”
Ruehlmann has an extensive background in product development, marketing and merchandising consumer goods. He began his career at Procter & Gamble, working on brands including Ivory, Zest, Coast and Safeguard for more than a decade. He has held executive–level posts at Sealy, Mattress Firm, Chiquita Brands International, Evenflo, Sara Lee and Cincinnati Bell.
