ATLANTA—Simmons has named Jim Ruehlmann to the newly created position of executive vice president of product development.
Ruehlmann is responsible for developing and executing the mattress manufacturer’s new-product creation and innovation strategies. He reports directly to Gary Fazio, chief executive officer.
Prior to joining Simmons, Ruehlmann served in product-development roles for various companies, including Sealy, where he was vice president of marketing in charge of new product development, advertising, pricing and licensing. He has also worked in product-development, marketing and merchandising posts for Procter & Gamble, Chiquita Brands International, Evenflo, Sara Lee Foods, Mattress Firm and Cincinnati Bell.