Bernhardt Announces Executive Changes
Furniture World News Desk on
2/1/2023
G. Alex Bernhardt, Jr., President and CEO of Bernhardt Furniture, announced a corporate reorganization and several executive changes at Bernhardt Furniture Company, including the retirement of J. Rountree Collett, Chief Operating Officer of Bernhardt Furniture and President of Bernhardt Ventures, effective in March.
Collett has been at Bernhardt for 35 years and has been instrumental in shaping the business and the culture of the company. He will continue to serve the company as Director of Bernhardt Industries and Bernhardt Furniture.
William B. Collett will move into the roles of Chief Operating Officer and President of Bernhardt Ventures. Collett has been with the company for 25 years. In his most recent role as EVP and General Manager of the Residential Casegoods division, the division has led the high-end furniture industry in terms of style and growth. Collett will report directly to Bernhardt.
Bernhardt said, “We are immensely grateful for all Rountree has contributed to our company, our community, and the industry as a whole. We will miss his daily guidance and leadership but are gratified to know he will remain active in the company in his director role. I am pleased that William has agreed to be his replacement, as he has excelled in all his previous positions within the company.”
Steve Pilgrim will become President of Bernhardt Residential, effective immediately. During his 15 years at Bernhardt, Pilgrim has served in a number of capacities, most recently as Senior Vice President of Bernhardt Sales. In his new role, he will lead the Residential Casegoods and Upholstery teams, as well as overseeing Bernhardt Exteriors and E-Commerce.
“Steve is one of the most respected executives in our industry,” Bernhardt said. “I am very excited about his new role both for our internal management staff and for our customers.”
Bernhardt also announced the promotion of William Howard to Senior Vice President of Human Resources, reporting directly to the CEO. In his previous role of Vice President of Human Resources, Howard led the company during unprecedented challenges effecting the company and community.
Bernhardt added, “With these recent promotions, we are positioning our company to better navigate and succeed in the years ahead. I am honored to be working with these fine individuals who are not only highly regarded in their disciplines, but who are exemplary leaders within the company.”
About Bernhardt: Headquartered in Lenoir, NC, Bernhardt is a luxury heritage brand that has long been associated with iconic furniture design. Founded in 1889 by John Mathias Bernhardt, the company’s history began over 134 years ago. Today, Bernhardt continues that legacy with a passion for inspired design. Led by the family’s 4th generation, Bernhardt has grown into the largest high end furniture company in the country and a leading global furniture manufacturer. Characterized by the use of uniquely beautiful materials and an elevated design aesthetic, Bernhardt furnishings are instantly recognizable. They can be found in beautiful homes, hotels, offices, universities, and other fine properties worldwide.