Mattress producer Kingsdown has promoted Michael Carter to director of quality systems. He also continues in his current role as international operations manager.
In his new role, Carter is responsible for Kingsdown’s total quality management program, implemented in 2007. In addition, the Mebane, N.C.-based company plans to expand quality control efforts under Carter to include not only manufacturing plants but also sales and marketing functions.
“We’re adding several new initiatives with a heavy emphasis on product development,” said John Farnham, Kingsdown vice president of manufacturing. “At the same time, we’re streamlining the reporting structure to eliminate red tape and improve communication among the divisions at Kingsdown. Michael will focus on all aspects of the program with the help of a cross-functional support team. Our goal is a leaner program with 100% involvement from all employees.”
Carter joined Kingsdown in 1998 as a production line coordinator in Winchester, Va. During his tenure with the company he has served as manager of manufacturing operations in the United Kingdom, head of research and development in Mebane, and assistant plant manager in Lakeland, Fla.
“Michael has a tremendous understanding of operations and quality control, and he’ll be an excellent liaison among our facilities,” said Frank Hood, Kingsdown president and chief executive officer. “In fact, Michael has worked in more Kingsdown facilities than almost any other manager, making him the ideal person to keep all our plants operating in unison. He has already excelled in this role on an international level and we believe he can only strengthen our operations in the U.S.”
