JASPER – Kristine Juster has been named new CEO of commercial furniture maker and designer Kimball International Inc. in Jasper.
Her appointment is effective Nov. 1. She succeeds Bob Schneider, CEO and board chairman, who announced his retirement—effective Oct. 31—earlier this year.
Juster brings more than 20 years of experience to Kimball International, and most recently served as a global executive at Newell Brands. During her tenure at Newell Brands she served as CEO/president of the home décor segment with the design driven brands, Levelor and Kirsh; the culinary lifestyle segment with Calphalon.
Throughout her career, Juster has driven significant growth for the businesses she has led through brand innovation, distribution channel expansion including e-commerce, and a global mindset. She has a proven track record of scaling growth strategies, while preserving the core values that are critical to the long-term sustainability of a business, according to a statement from Kimball International.
“Kristie is a proven, visionary leader with significant experience in areas important to Kimball International’s future, including strategic growth initiatives and diverse distribution channels,” said Pat Connolly, lead independent director of Kimball International’s board. “While bringing an outside perspective, she also already has a strong understanding of our business and has contributed to the company’s strategic planning as a member of our board the last two and a half years.”
Juster is looking forward to her new role.
“I am honored and excited to lead Kimball International, which has such a rich history and compelling opportunities for strategic growth,” she said. “Over the past several years, Kimball International has transformed into a world-class design company with market-leading brands and a higher level of return on capital than any of our public competitors. Our next chapter will leverage our entrepreneurial background, our love of design and creativity, and a passion for customer service and employee empowerment.”
Kimball International’s board also plans to separate the roles of chairman and CEO and will elect and appoint a new chair following its annual shareholders meeting Oct. 30.
