by The fifth-generation family member of Karges Furniture fills a role held by Rob Burch since the spring of 2014
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Luxury case goods and upholstery manufacturer Kindel Grand Rapids has promoted Gretchen Keith to president and chief executive officer, effective Aug. 14.
She fills a role previously held by Rob Burch for the past nine years. He is joining the company’s board of directors.
Keith is a fifth-generation member of the Karges family, of Karges Furniture Co. She has more than 30 years of industry experience, most recently as vice president, marketing and brand management at Kindel Grand Rapids for the past four years.
For nine and a half years prior, she was vice president and general manager for Karges and Councill, which are among the luxury manufacturers that are part of the Kindel Grand Rapids family of brands. Kindel acquired Karges in 2014 and acquired Councill in 2015.
For more than eight years before that, she was vice president of Karges Furniture Co.
“She brings a deep understanding of the world of fine furnishings, the economics of the business, and a passion for the industry,” said Jim Fisher, chairman of the board of directors for Kindel Grand Rapids, adding that she is highly qualified to take the company forward. “She understands our special value proposition and the importance of the designer in the creative and buying process.”
The company also announced that Denny Patterson, currently chief financial officer, will also take on the role of chief operating officer.
Fisher noted, “Denny has a great understanding of the bespoke furniture industry from both financial and operational perspectives. He has spent the majority of his professional career making beautiful furniture and has a great love for what we do.”
Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kindel Grand Rapids has manufactured luxury furniture for more than 100 years. Its sister brands include Karges, Councill and Councill Contract.
