Pride Family Brands announced this week that Mark Stephens has been promoted to President of the company based in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
Stephens will take over the leadership role previously held by Derek Ritzel, who has left the company to pursue personal interests.
Prior to this promotion, Stephens served as Executive Vice President of sales for the handcrafted luxury outdoor furnishings manufacturer. The appointment was made by private equity firm New Water Capital, the owner of Pride Family Brands. As President, Stephens will be responsible for the successful execution of Pride Family Brands’ long-term growth plan.
“Mark is an exceptional leader and a consummate professional with not only immense knowledge from his years of working in the home category; but also, valuable insight from his previously held position within Castelle,” said John Disa, Chairman, Pride Family Brands and Partner, New Water Capital. “He has proven to be a strategic thinker and respected leader and will be invaluable to the organization as we build upon previous success and look to advance our growth agenda.”
Stephens joined Castelle/Pride Family Brands in September of 2017 following his tenure as Senior Vice President of sales for Heritage Home Group, which encompassed brands such as Broyhill, Thomasville, Drexel, Henredon and, at the time, outdoor furniture brand Lane Venture. His experience within the home category previously had included Vice President of sales and marketing for Broyhill. In 2011, Mark was promoted to President of Broyhill Furniture, returning the furniture brand to growth and profitability.
"At Pride Family Brands, we have a dedicated group of professionals and artisans that are passionate about creating the highest value across each of our brands,” said Stephens. “In my new role, I envision a company that will be recognized as an industry leader not only in terms of design and quality, but in service as well. I look to create an environment in which each team can excel by understanding and providing solutions to the needs of our customers. I look forward to being a part of these efforts and am truly honored to have this opportunity.”
Stephens is a graduate of University of Wisconsin-Madison with a BA in Communication. He currently resides in Parkland, FL with his wife, Ellen, and their five sons.
