Pergo, LLC has named David Hartman vice president of sales for the company’s operations in North, Central and South America.  Hartman, who joined the company May 3, is responsible for all aspects of Pergo sales, including management of the sales team, growth of new business and retailer relationship development. Hartman reports directly to ceo George Kelley, and replaces Tad Schimmelpfennig, who has left Pergo to pursue other interests.

“David’s appointment demonstrates that we are taking a fresh approach to meeting the particular needs of our valued specialty retail partners,” said Ralf Eisermann, CEO of Pergo AG.  “David’s successful record of building profitable businesses is due to his ‘voice of the customer’ approach, which aligns perfectly with Pergo’s philosophy.”

In continuing to build its specialty retail market, Pergo will capitalize on Hartman’s deep flooring industry experience.  He served as president of Formica Flooring, launching the brand’s laminate business in 1996.  In addition, Hartman was executive vice president of Florim USA; vice president of marketing at Dal-Tile; and senior vice president, residential, at Mannington.  He began his career at Armstrong. 

“David’s business acumen and in-depth understanding of the flooring industry make him an invaluable leader for our Americas’ sales team,” said George Kelley, ceo of Pergo North America.  “His sales-building track record and customer orientation will be significant assets as Pergo continues to strengthen our position within this key channel.”

Most recently, Hartman served as president of the Philadelphia-based strategic consulting firm, Alexandria & Associates, which provides strategic direction to building products companies in North America.  Alexandria & Associates’ clients and Hartman’s past clients include companies in the laminate, ceramic tile, hardwood and LVT categories – including Mohawk, Armstrong, Domco-Tarkett, Kale, Classen and Inhaus. 

“I have joined the Pergo executive management team because we are in a unique position to grow our specialty retail business and to deliver unsurpassed customer satisfaction across the board,” said Hartman.  “My mission is to leverage Pergo’s category leader innovation and branding to specialty retail and all other customers.”