Boston-based New Balance announced today that Robert T. DeMartini
has been named the global athletic company's Chief Executive Officer.
DeMartini has more than twenty-two years of experience in the consumer
products industry, including The Procter & Gamble Company, The
Gillette Company and most recently as Group Vice President of Tyson
Foods Inc., Consumer Products Division.
"After thirty-five years of managing the company, we feel that it
is time to introduce younger and more progressive management, says Jim
Davis, Chairman of New Balance. "Rob brings broad experience,
professional qualifications and most importantly, a clear
understanding of New Balance's unique culture. We are confident that
he will direct the company in attaining our aggressive business goals
while maintaining our corporate value system."
At Procter & Gamble, DeMartini held numerous sales, marketing and
general manager roles that included Vice President of Sales and
Distribution for Millstone Coffee, Global Sales Leadership for the
snack category and finally as General Manager of the North American
Snack Business. As Senior Vice President and General Manager at The
Gillette Company, DeMartini ran the North American Blades and Razors
and Personal Care operations, a $2.2 billion business. At Tyson Foods
Inc., DeMartini was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the
company's $6 billion consumer products business, including marketing,
sales and operations.
"I'm excited to join New Balance and contribute to the company's
very successful business," says DeMartini. "I plan to continue the
established focus on domestic manufacturing, deep commitment to
serious runners and strong appetite to grow the apparel business and
other footwear brands. I also expect to continue the company's active
participation in the communities where it operates."
A native Californian and graduate of San Diego State University
with a Bachelor of Science degree in finance, DeMartini and his family
reside in Swampscott, MA.
New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA, is a privately-held
leading manufacturer of technologically innovative width-sized
performance footwear and athletic apparel for women, men, and
children. The range of product categories includes running, walking,
training, basketball, tennis, cleated and kids. New Balance Athletic
Shoe, Inc. employs more than 2,800 people around the globe, and in
2006 reported worldwide sales of $1.55 billion. For more information
please visit http://www.newbalance.com.
