Wednesday, September 03 2008
Kansas City, MO - In reflection of the company's commitment to build a strong and dynamic management team across its unique portfolio of
cigars & cigar accessories, XIKAR, Inc. has announced the appointment of Jerry Dear as Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing - Tobacco Division.
Formerly Executive Vice President of American Italian Pasta Company, Jerry oversaw both strategic directions for the company as well as profit & loss for several Strategic Business Units representing approximately 40% of the Company's sales". Jerry also provided leadership for AIPC's Private Label Strategic Business Unit and was elected to the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) Board of Directors for a three year term that began in 2007. During his tenure at AIPC Jerry orchestrated the Private Label market share growth from 5% to an industry leading 65%. Prior to joining AIPC Jerry held several senior leadership roles for the Pillsbury Company.
Jerry will oversee all premium tobacco brand sales and marketing management, as well as non-premium tobacco business development.
"Jerry comes from one of the best companies in one of the toughest industries. Over a 13 year period, he grew his company's sales from the tens of millions to the hundreds of millions. Jerry is also an old friend, one of my former bosses (and mentor) and a lover of the leaf. So it seemed natural for us to one day get together," said President Kurt Van Keppel.
Jerry Dear adds, "I have been an avid cigar smoker for many years and traveled to many cigar producing regions around the world. I enjoy an aggressive and creative approach to building both customer and consumer sales as well as developing and building brands. I very much look forward to joining XIKAR and continuing to build on the tremendous success and goodwill that has been created by a solid company with outstanding products and great leadership."
About XIKAR Inc.
From its Kansas City headquarters, XIKAR is the world's leading manufacturer of cigar cutters, including the well-recognized Xi cigar cutter, along with a full line of cigar and gentlemen's accessories, including lighters, humidors, humidification systems and containers. £
For more information, visit www.xikar.com.
