Charleston Forge Appoints Ben Rawls As President And Hires 2 New Reps

Furniture World Magazine

Charleston Forge has announced the appointment of Ben Rawls as President, a major step in ongoing efforts to add leading-edge management and marketing talent into the organization. Principal and former company president Art Barber will assume the role of Chairman/CEO. Mr. Rawls’ previous manufacturing experience is highlighted by a 15-year term at Hickory Chair Company. Before leaving Hickory Chair, he last served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. According to Jay Reardon, President of Hickory Chair, “Ben is an outstanding person and a true leader, well respected in the industry and destined to do great things at Charleston Forge.” Most recently, Mr. Rawls has spent the last 3 years with Boyles Furniture, a major retailer. During that time, he was involved in merchandising, advertising and, later, regional management of stores. According to Barber, the timing couldn't be better for Charleston Forge. “We’re committed to making this our most exciting Market ever, by totally rearranging our 25,000-square-foot showroom and by introducing the largest selection of products in our 20-year history,” he said. “Now with the addition of Ben to our team, things will be just that much more exciting. He is extremely intelligent and possesses all the qualities of a great leader. His perspective on the challenges facing retailers today will greatly help us with our retail partnerships. Ben’s just the person we need to take our company forward and we’re thrilled to welcome him aboard." “I’m really excited about joining Charleston Forge,” Mr. Rawls said. “I feel especially good about the solid reputation CF has in the market and I look forward to leading their commitment to new product development. When it comes to quality, there is no compromise for Art and Susan Barber. That’s why I believe this is a wonderful marriage of experience, ultra-positive intentions and unwavering determination.” Two New Reps: Addressing the growing demand for their unique furniture designs including three exciting new collections, Charleston Forge has hired two new sales representatives to support local dealers in selling their products. Terry North, Sales Representative: Terry North was born and raised in Kansas City. A graduate of the University of Kansas, he is a fourth generation furniture professional. Mr. North began his career as a marketing representative for Ethan Allen in 1979 and spent 12 years with Henredon, later repping for Vanguard and Habersham. He will represent Charleston Forge in the Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas area. Chris Ogan, Sales Representative: Chris Ogan’s curriculum vitae include serving as a U.S. Marine Corps Captain and graduating from Michigan’s Hillsdale College. He has worked as a furniture representative for nearly three decades. He will cover the State of Texas for Charleston Forge. “We’re extremely proud to welcome these two great professionals on board,” Charleston Forge principal, Art Barber, said. “With all of the exciting developments taking place here at Charleston Forge and with our stunning new collections, we’ll surely make the most of the help and industry know-how that Terry and Chris will provide.” About Charleston Forge: Charleston Forge, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, uses age-old blacksmithing techniques and the newest technologies to produce exceptional furniture and accent pieces. Their skilled artisans use only the highest quality materials to create beautifully designed pieces in iron, which is also used in combination with the finest woods, glass and other materials, to offer unique and very special pieces for every lifestyle. Charleston Forge furniture and accent pieces are offered throughout the US, Canada and the United Kingdom in high-end furniture and lifestyle stores.