George G. Couri, chair, and Ronald J. Couri, CEO, have announced the appointment of Michael J. Riley as president of Couristan Inc. Riley was most recently president of Oriental Weavers USA.

Couristan, established in 1926, is a leading global manufacturer, importer, and distributor of fine rugs, broadloom, and custom carpets for the residential and hospitality markets. Couristan is privately owned and has been managed by the Couri family for two generations. To support the continued growth of their company, the Couris sought an industry leader with the expertise needed to direct Couristan’s sales and merchandising growth and expand Couristan’s distribution strategy.

“To accelerate the transformation of Couristan to respond to the changes in the marketplace for the coming decades, Mike is the perfect fit,” George Couri says, “and with his expertise across Couristan’s Residential and Hospitality divisions, he will be an asset to the company.” Ron Couri adds, “Mike is someone we have known for many years and will be a great addition to lead our company’s growth.”

As president, Riley will be overseeing the residential and hospitality sales teams. Under his leadership, Steve Codella will now be heading sales of the Broadloom and Roll Runner divisions, and Mark Ferullo will be in charge of area-rug sales. Niall Coree will continue to oversee the sales and operations of the Contract/Hospitality Division.

Riley explains, “I made the decision to join Couristan based on an alignment of visions with George and Ron as to the future of the industry, as well as their decision and commitment to respond to the rapidly changing distribution landscape. It is essential for companies to be nimble in this climate. Together with the talented Couristan team and the full support of the ownership, I am committed to achieving dramatic growth for Couristan in the U.S. markets.”