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AIS EXECUTIVE TEAM
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Chairman
Arthur J. Maxwell, Chairman, is Founder of Affordable Interior Systems, Inc. one of the largest business furniture manufactures in the United States. The Massachusetts-based company was founded in 1989. In October of 2007, Audax Group—a top tier Private Equity Firm—purchased a majority interest in AIS, and Maxwell remains a significant shareholder and a company advisor. Affordable is also the recipient of the 2003 SHINGO award, which is referred to as the Nobel Prize of manufacturing.
Mr. Maxwell was formerly the managing General Partner of AIS Venture Fund LP, a multifaceted investment vehicle. He holds positions with USOP Realty Group LLC, Harwich One LLC, Comax Partners, AIS Funding LLC, and AIS Equity Holdings LLC. In 1998, Maxwell completed the successful sale of Sovereign Capital Corporation, which focused on real estate development and mortgage-backed securities. Mr. Maxwell has served on the Board of Directors of publicly traded US Technologies, an incubator of early stage technology ventures, as well as Krueger Brent, S. A., a multinational holding company headquartered in Luxembourg with executive offices in Switzerland.
In 2004, Mr. Maxwell led the buy out of Pearl Street Capital Group, Pearl Street Capital Group (PSCG) utilizes proprietary tools and methodologies to understand behaviors of private equity and venture debt portfolios. Pearl Street projects performance, simulates cash flows, assesses risk, and structures rated and non-rated leveraged transactions.
From early 2004 until August of 2006, Maxwell served as the CEO of WhiteFence. He currently serves as an active investor, advisor and Board member to a handful of enterprises at different stages of development. Maxwell attended Boston College from 1976-1979, where he majored in Political Science and Economics. He resides in Sudbury, Mass., with his wife and three daughters.
CEO/President
An industry veteran for 22 years, Bruce first worked in the furniture industry as a salesperson for Steelcase, later becoming general manager of that same dealership. As co-founder of AIS in 1989, Bruce has led the company in a successful transition from a leading re-manufacturer, to a premier new manufacturer. From cost control, to production, to product development, to sales and marketing, Bruce’s hands on management exemplifies AIS’s team approach to leadership
Board of Directors/Partner
Mike’s sales leadership and marketing instinct have helped to establish AIS as one of the Nation’s leading systems furniture manufacturers. With over 15 years of experience in executive management and strategic planning, Mike has assembled a strong team of talented individuals that have helped to build AIS' success in key markets nationally.
The extensive AIS technology initiatives include the top e-based sales and marketing tools in the industry. Michael has spearheaded the use of advanced customer relationship management applications such as SalesLogix™ enabling AIS to manage broad based distribution channels in an effective way. Since 1997 AIS has evolved from a regional based company to a competitive national market leader with over 750 dealers in 46 states, Canada, the Carribean, and the Middle East.
Chief Operating Officer
With an extensive background in manufacturing strategic planning, Steve Savage joined AIS in 1995 to build a factory capable of handling 40 percent-plus annual growth. Since then, Steve and his team have implemented a total reengineering of AIS’s manufacturing processes by converting a long lead-time, batch and queue manufacturer into a world-class company.
Steve's efforts resulted in AIS winning the prestigious Shingo Prize for excellence in Manufacturing awarded in April 2003.
This lean transformation is a never-ending journey. Steve believes that any manufacturer today must implement lean practices to survive the competition from Asia and afar. Steve holds a BSME and MBA from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Chief Financial Officer
Bryan joined AIS in the Spring of 2001. Prior to joining AIS, Bryan was CFO for a furniture manufacturer, managing all aspects of the financial dealings for the $35M company from 1995-2001. He also was responsible for initiatives to streamline production processes and implemented cost controls throughout the organization. Previously Bryan had 15 years of experience at the CFO level in real estate and travel management.
Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing
Joining AIS in Fall of 2002, Michelle brings exceptional industry experience to the AIS sales executive team. Previously working in a regional sales executive capacity for a major furniture manufacturer handling both distribution and large global clients, and then as VP of Sales for a dealership, Michelle's understanding of the ingredients needed to maintain successful dealer, client and manufacturer relationships is invaluable.
With a broad understanding of market segments for systems furniture in particular, Michelle also works closely with the GSA sales team on behalf of AIS in bringing quality products and services to the Government furniture customers.
VP of Sales - National Accounts Manager
Rob Lazarus joined AIS in 2001 with over 20 years of experience at both the dealership and manufacturing levels. Rob brings a dynamic energy to the sales management team at AIS, and continues to build a distribution network of premier partners to continue AIS growth in the Western part of the United States.
Rob leads a team of territory managers, independent reps, and sales support in the Western Region and Midwest to develop strategic distribution alliance for AIS.
Vice President of Product Development
With AIS since 1992, Bill Stewich has led the product development efforts that have built AIS’s reputation for exceptional product quality and innovation. Since 1997, Bill has overseen design and development of such products as AIS MWall, Z-panel, and most recently, AIS Matrix.
Prior to his engineering role, Bill held management positions at AIS in the Marketing and Design departments, where he developed the standards for all AIS product literature and electronic Design and Specification libraries.
VP of Sales, National Accounts
As one of the founding fathers of AIS, David boasts over 29 years in the furniture industry. David began his career after graduating from the University of Maine in Orono. His achievements include starting and running an office furniture dealership, as well as partnering a large independent rep firm. David began at AIS as a National Sales Manager, covering markets all over the United States. His exceptional product knowledge, outgoing demeanor, and competitive nature have fueled him throughout his career. He is now a Vice President of Sales, managing major and national accounts. David presently resides in Davidson, North Carolina.
VP of Operations
With a solid lean and continuous improvement background, Greg Scher joined the AIS Management team in 2004 as VP of Operations. His diverse responsibilities include the Purchasing, Customer Service, Receiving, Warehousing, Inventory Control, and Field Support departments of AIS. In his career, Greg has received accreditation from GE’s Manufacturing Management Program and certification in APICS and CPM. He holds a BSEE from Suny, Buffalo, as well as an MBA from Boston University, and currently resides in North Reading, MA.
Senior VP - New England/NJ/Upper Mid-Atlantic/International
With 9 years of management and industry experience, Ben Maxwell is the newest member of the AIS executive sales team. Having worked in various capacities at AIS, most recently as Territory Manager for New England,
Ben has a knack for creative solutions and dedication to superior service at every level. Ben will be helping grow AIS sales and distribution by developing and managing new channels while building and nurturing key customer relationships.
Senior VP - Mid-Atlantic/Southeast/South Central U.S.
Having joined the AIS team in January of 2007, David Morales is currently the Vice President of GSA Sales for the Mid-Atlantic Region. David brings eight years of solid experience in the furniture industry and 19 years working with the Federal Government. David’s experience with DOD and Civilian agencies make him a valuable asset when dealing with the intricacies of the Federal Market place. These qualities have made an impact on the AIS team and will continue to improve AIS’s position in the industry.
Senior VP - Midwest/West
Jeff Bohn joined AIS as the new Regional VP of Sales – Midwest in January of 2008. Jeff is directly responsible for Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North & South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. Jeff brings to AIS over 17 years of industry related experience, having worked with Haworth for the past 10 years. Jeff’s extensive knowledge and management experience are valued assets to the AIS team. Jeff holds a Bachelor's Degree from Indiana University and currently resides in Grand Rapids, MI.
Regional Vice President - Southeast/Latin America
With nearly 10 years with AIS, David has held numerous positions within the company, from Territory Manager, Vice President of GSA, and currently Regional Sales Manager of the Southeast - NC,SC,GA,FL, Puerto Rico and Latin America. He brings exemplary determination and enthusiasm to the AIS team. With over 25 years of industry experience working for dealerships and manufacturers, he brings a unique understanding of the challenges of the marketplace. David currently resides in Marietta, GA.
Western Regional VP
Mark Chaput joined the AIS sales team in November of 2006 as Regional VP of Sales - Western Region. In this role, he oversees sales and dealer distribution in the Western United States. Mark's previous experience includes working for Steelcase as a Dealer Sales Manager and Market Manager, as well as Director of contract furniture sales for Office Depot. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Cal Poly Pomona, and currently resides in Claremont, CA.
Regional VP of Sales - Mid Atlantic
Mark joined AIS in 2006, bringing with him 7 years of furniture expertise. He previously held positions with both Kimball and National Office Furniture, developing lasting customer relationships and a wealth of product knowledge. Mark excels in dealer development by understanding their issues. Mark is now the Vice President of Sales for the Mid Atlantic, covering Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, Delaware, West Virginia, Southern New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Regional VP of Sales - NY
Paul Cantatore joined the AIS team in February of 2008 as Regional VP of Sales for the New York market where he is responsible for over-seeing the NY/NJ region and for driving new business initiatives. Paul comes to AIS from EvansonBest where he served as Sales Director for the past 2 years, and from Humanscale as Ares Director of Sales - NY, NJ for 4 years prior. Paul holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics and currently resides in Huntington, NY.
Regional VP of Sales - PA, DE, NJ
Scott Pitel joined AIS in 2005, and has recently been promoted to Regional VP of Sales - PA, DE, NJ. He formerly served as Territory Manager for the Upper Mid Atlantic. Scott brings ten years of furniture and facilities related experience, making him a valuable addition to the Sales Team. Excellent planning and project management skills, paired with his capability to set and meet deadlines, continue to lead Scott in his career at AIS. Since the beginning of Scott’s career at AIS he has consistently been a leader in sales growth and been the recipient of many awards. Scott holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
Regional VP of Sales- South Central
Sid joined AIS in May 2007, bringing with him over 15 years of industry experience, including a successful career with Haworth. His exceptional communication and presentation skills have led him to his current position as Regional Vice President of Sales, South Central. In this role, Sid is personally responsible for Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, and areas of Florida. Sid also covers Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas via support to Cronan & Associates. Sid holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and presently resides in Birmingham, Alabama.
Vice President Government Sales
Steve Lawrence joined the AIS team in October of 2007. Since then he has assumed a new role as VP of Government Administration & Distribution, responsible for government sales volume, distribution channels and contract administration. Steve brings 20 years of dealer and manufacturer related experience, working previously with MOI and Kimball Office. Steve holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Hofstra University, and currently resides in Columbia, MD.
Territory Manager - Midwest
Bob joined AIS in May 2007 as Territory Manager for Western PA, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and West Virginia. Bob brings 25 years of outstanding industry related experience to AIS, from both a dealer and a manufacturer’s perspective. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from The Pennsylvania State University, and has won several sales awards throughout his career. Bob currently resides in Glenshaw, Pennsylvania.
Territory Manager - GA
Brian Wren joined AIS in November of 2007 as Territory Manager - Georgia. Brian is responsible for dealer development and sales within this region. He has developed a strong knowledge of the industry having served with Herman Miller and Steelcase for 29 years. Brian currently resides in Atlanta, GA.
Territory Manager - South Florida
Jim Boughey has been with AIS for the past four years, and currently holds the position of Territory Manager - South Florida. In this role, Jim is responsible for developing and servicing AIS partners in the South Florida Market. He previously served with Herman Miller for four years as Sales Manager. Jim currently resides in Miami, FL.
Territory Manger - The Carolinas
Jon Cohan joined the AIS sales force in the Fall of 2007 as Territory Manager - NC/SC. Jon brings with him to AIS 13+ years of industry expereince with Cort Furniture Rental, Haworth Dealer, and National Office Furniture. He currently resides in South Carolina.
Territory Manager
Kathy joined AIS in October of 2007 as Sales Representative and New York City Showroom Manager, responsible for showroom presentations, dealer and end user ralations, and product mock-ups. Previously, Kathy worked with AIS Rep Firm, Bill Gross & Associates for the past six years. Kathy holds a Marketing Degree from Baruch College in NYC and currently resides in New York.
Sales Executive - The Carolinas
Kristin Bolduc joined AIS as a Territory Manager for The Carolinas and Southern Virginia in August 2007. Kristin holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with an emphasis on Marketing from NC State University. While there, Kristin garnered key internships with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and the NC State Wolfpack Football Recruiting Team that further honed her marketing and sales skills. In her first position as a new college grad, Kristin worked for the nation’s leading provider of diagnostic laboratory testing, information, and services. During her time there, Kristin was not only an award-winning sales person, but was also fast-tracked to the highest sales position in the company. Kristin’s current AIS responsibilities include monitoring existing account segments, penetrating new market opportunities including GSA, working with the Architectural and Design Community, as well as partnering with the sales and dealer community to develop, implement, and monitor AIS sales strategies. Kristin is actively involved with a variety of organizations including Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and CoreNet Global where she sits on the communications committee.
Territory Manager - New England
Melissa joined AIS as Regional Sales Assistant in the winter of 2004. Having held previous sales positions, Melissa thrived within the department. Her outgoing nature and ever-increasing product knowledge soon led to her promotion to New England Territory Manager. She now works out of the home office in Hudson, MA, serving the New England area dealers. Melissa also calls on the NE A&D community and is very active with IIDA New England.
Territory Manager - WI
Michele joined AIS in the beginning of 2006 with over 10 years of previous industry experience. She currently holds the position of Territory Manager for the Mid-West , US. Michele has exceptional presentation skills, and holds a Bachelors Degree from the University of Minnesota.
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