A well-known flooring retailer has announced significant leadership changes, including the planned retirement of Chris Wellborn, President and Chief Operating Officer, and the promotion of Paul De Cock to succeed him as President and COO, effective February 1, 2025. In addition, Ken Walma will join the company and take over as President of the Flooring North America Segment, succeeding De Cock after gaining a thorough understanding of Mohawk's operations.
Photo: Mohawk Industries.
Following his retirement, Wellborn will continue to contribute to the company as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, assisting with the leadership transition. Jeff Lorberbaum, Mohawk's Chair and CEO, highlighted the importance of succession planning that integrates institutional knowledge with fresh perspectives, noting Wellborn's significant role in growing Mohawk's ceramic business into the world's largest, with manufacturing across three continents and sales in 140 countries.
Paul De Cock, who has spent his career in the flooring industry, has led Mohawk's Flooring North America business for the past six years, driving operational improvements and enhancing customer experiences. Prior to this role, De Cock was President of Mohawk's Flooring Rest of the World Segment and held leadership roles at Unilin Group, which Mohawk acquired.
Ken Walma, the incoming President of Flooring North America, brings a wealth of experience in manufacturing leadership, having previously served as Group President at Madison Air and held senior roles at companies including Signify, Eaton Corporation, and Lutron Electronics. His leadership style is expected to complement Mohawk's executive team and drive continued growth in the North American segment.
These appointments are part of Mohawk's ongoing commitment to strong leadership and strategic succession planning.
Source: www.bigfurnituregroup.com