I appreciate this opportunity for continued service to our great industry and look forward to strong collaboration with the ISPA Board as we work to expand the mattress market.
Charles R. Eitel, Chairman and CEO, Simmons Bedding Company

Charles R. Eitel, Chairman and CEO of the Simmons Bedding Company.

Charles R. Eitel, Chairman and CEO of the Simmons Bedding Company, assumed chairmanship of the International Sleep Products Association Board of Trustees, effective immediately. Eitel was formerly Vice Chair of the Board, and a search for his replacement is now underway by the ISPA Nominating Committee. This action follows the resignation of former Board Chair Jim Nation.

"I appreciate this opportunity for continued service to our great industry and look forward to strong collaboration with the ISPA Board as we work to expand the mattress market," said Eitel. "In particular, we hope to strengthen our outreach to consumers by involving retailers in our efforts, and we think they’ll share our excitement about the tremendous opportunities that lie ahead."

Under Eitel's leadership, Simmons was recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" in 2003 and 2004. The Atlanta-based company, which has been an ISPA member since it helped found the association in 1915, employs 4,000 associates and operates 17 plants throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.

"We are delighted that Charlie Eitel has assumed this key industry leadership role," said ISPA President and CEO Dick Doyle.

Eitel’s career includes a variety of top positions in the floor coverings industry prior to joining Simmons in 2000. He was president and chief operating officer of Interface, Inc., a leading global manufacturer of floor-coverings and interior fabrics. He also served as president and chief executive officer of Collins & Aikman Floorcoverings and began his career in 1971 as sales trainee for Coronet Carpets, where he was named president in 1980.