EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass., April 7, 2008 — LENOX, a leading manufacturer of premium power tool accessories, torches, solder and band saw blades, today announces that Bill Burke has been appointed Group President - Tools & Hardware, reporting to Mark Ketchum, President and Chief Executive Officer, Newell Rubbermaid.
As president of LENOX, Bill Burke has led the LENOX Industrial Products and Services business since 2003. The LENOX brand has averaged double digit growth during this period and become a significant platform for global growth behind strong branding, innovation, end user conversion and channel penetration.
"LENOX has enjoyed significant growth in product development and sales over the last few years and Bill Burke′s leadership has definitely been an integral part of this," said Mark Ketchum, President and Chief Executive Officer of Newell Rubbermaid. "In this expanded role, Bill will apply his leadership and expertise to grow all our brands in the tools and hardware group."
Bill will retain responsibility for the North American LENOX business until a successor is named at a later date. Prior to LENOX, Burke was vice president and general manager of Black & Decker′s product service division.