Brian Casey leaving High Point Market Authority

Casey, president and CEO, is taking another job

Furniture Today Staff -- Casual Living, 3/21/2011 1:02:50 PM

HIGH POINT, N.C. — Brian Casey is stepping down as president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority effective April 30 to take another job, the agency that coordinates the High Point  Market said today.

Casey has held the position since 2006. The Market Authority said its executive committee is searching for a replacement.

"As we embark on this new beginning for the Market Authority, the executive committee believes the future of the billion-dollar High Point Market is bright, and that the importance of a strong and independent Market Authority has never been more critical," said Kevin O'Connor, chairman of the Market Authority, who also heads furniture importer Samson Marketing.

"I would like to thank Brian Casey for the work he has done over the last five years. He has been a tireless advocate for furthering the brand of the High Point Market and we wish him all the best for his future endeavors," O'Connor said in a statement. "We have built a strong group in the Market Authority staff and its board, and we are prepared for an exceptional April Market with Brian and with Senior Vice President Tammy Nagem handling the day-to-day operations."

Casey said in a statement that his "tenure at the Market Authority has been one of the best experiences in my overall professional career. I can only attribute that to the great staff and board, a supportive community, and industry leaders who will continue to keep this market strong."

Casey could not immediately be reached for comment.

O'Connor and others involved in the Market Authority said the agency has made improvements in the market under Casey's tenure and has defended High Point as the premier furniture trade show.