Paul K. Smith Becomes President of Häfele America Co.
January 10, 2012

Officials at the Häfele Group, with headquarters in Nagold, Germany, named Paul K. Smith as president of Häfele America Co. in Archdale, N.C., the company's North American subsidiary, according to a January 9 news release. Smith succeeds John Hossli who is retiring as president after serving in that role since 1999.

"We believe Paul's 25 years of proven management experience combined with his expertise in architectural interiors, engineering and solutions will lead Häfele America toward continued growth and success," says Sibylle Thierer, CEO and president of Häfele Group, in the release. "His expertise, passion and leadership also make Paul extremely well suited to contribute to the expanding Häfele global enterprise."

Smith joined Häfele in mid-2011 after working as vice president for Haworth Inc. in Holland, Mich. His previous experience at Haworth included executive positions in the company's architectural interiors and wood businesses. Prior to Haworth, he worked in management positions at General Electric Co. and Whirlpool Corp.

"I'm excited to have this opportunity to join the Häfele family," Smith says in the release. "With its rich heritage of innovation, Häfele is truly a unique organization. I'm looking forward to providing leadership in the industry and helping Häfele continue to grow."

Smith graduated with a bachelor's in mechanical engineering from the Ohio State University and earned his MBA from Tiffin University in 1995.

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