Midwest-CBK hires Laurence Warden as VP of sales

Casual Living Staff -- Casual Living, 2/15/2013 10:50:35 AM

Laurence WardenCANNON FALLS, Minn. - Holiday, gifts and home and outdoor décor producer Midwest-CBK announced the addition of Laurence Warden as vice president of sales. Warden began his career at Midwest-CBK while in his native England, and now has more than 25 years of experience in the holiday and gift industry.

"Midwest-CBK has an incredible legacy and played a lead role in creating the holiday and gift industry, built by outstanding, talented and passionate people who create extraordinary products," Warden said. "What brought me back to Midwest-CBK is the magic of this special place, which I'm thrilled to share with our customers and the industry. We are in the best industry in the world - the products we sell touch people's hearts and inspire them to laugh. And I have the best job in the world - I love the fun people, changing trends and of course the products."

In his new role, Warden will lead the independent and national sales teams, focusing on growing sales and ensuring that both customers and the Midwest-CBK team have fun in the process.

"I had the privilege of working with Laurence when we served together at Midwest-CBK in the 1990s, and welcome his tremendous history of success, energy and breadth of experience back to the company and our customers," said Dick Duff, Midwest-CBK general manager. "His genuine enthusiasm combined with outstanding sales and leadership will serve our customers, employees and the industry well."

Warden served in several sales leadership roles at Midwest-CBK in both England and the U.S., including director of national sales. Prior to returning to Midwest-CBK, Warden served as the director of sales for Kaemingk Associates, where he brought the largest European holiday company to the U.S. market.