LOUISEVILLE, Quebec (27 January 2012) - Canadel Furniture has named company veterans Howard Cohen as director of sales and Jeffrey Velick as director of merchandising, both new positions for the casual dining specialist.

The appointments were made in the wake of the departure of Bob Kelly, who had served as president of sales since the retirement of Jean Deveault in 2008.

Both men have been with Canadel for over 20 years.

In his new post, Cohen will lead Canadel's sales force of more than 20 regional representatives in both Canada and the United States. He will be responsible for the creation and execution of the company's sale strategies.

Velick will be responsible for all product development, merchandising, advertising, promotions and related matters.

Both will be located in the U.S. and will report to Canadel president and chief operating officer Michel Deveault.

"The effort is collaborative, the vision is clear and both Howard and Jeff bring strength, knowledge, determination and the ability to execute," Deveault said in a statement. "We are committed to providing our valued retailers the best products and the most efficient service in the industry, and Howard and Jeffrey will be instrumental in making sure that this objective is accomplished."

Deveault also noted the appointments signal a renewed focus and vision for Canadel will be unveiled when the company's unveils in brand new showroom on the first floor of the National Furniture Mart at April 2012 edition of the High Point Market.