John Pelka Email & Phone Number

Orlando, Florida Area

I have spent the last eight months having a ball!! I also am happy to report that we are making money.I have been setting up a new company that will be marketing decorative hardware via the internet and through my personal and professional network. I have gained a tremendous appreciation for what it takes to set up the systems since I have to do a good portion by myself. It was so much easier to ask others to do it in my past life - now I have to do a lot of it myself. Not that I haven't had some excellent help; most importantly, my wife, Christine who is doing all the accounting and administration and keeping me headed in the right direction; Matt Southards has built the website and its great; Westcap is doing the storage and distribution and they are the consummate professionals; my banker has been supportive and lent us money during these difficult times! Thanks also to JW for his help and support and to all the people at Hickory that have been supportive during this journey.

Responsible for making the business grow and increase profitabilty. Focus is on building an integrated and effective e-marketing position and building relationships with customers and suppliers.

Responsible for making the business grow and increase profitabilty. Focus is on building an integrated and effective marketing strategy and building relationships with customers and suppliers.

Responsible for leading the Marketing discipline for Hickory Hardware, a new $150 million hardware company that consolidated Belwith, Keeler Brass, Faultless Caster, Madico and Wright Products. Developed and implemented the marketing strategy, built a new professional marketing staff, and introduced the Hickory brand to the hardware market. Introduced several new merchandising systems that are recognized as best in class; led the process to develop new decorative products, new packaging, brand-driven collateral and the Hickory advertising and PR campaigns. Focused the company on programs developed to maximize our customers sales and profits. Recognized as developing and leading a world class marketing organization

Belwith International (FKI plc), Grand Rapids, MI (2002 to 2006)President – Total P&L responsibility for one of the leading suppliers in the decorative and functional hardware industry. Primary markets served are the DIY retailers, hardware distributors, showrooms and cabinet OEMs. Major retail customers include Lowe’s, Home Depot, Wal-Mart, Ace and Menard. Distributor customers include the Wurth Group, Briggs and Courterco. Primary brands include Belwith International, Belwith Keeler, and Period Brass.

Responsible for managing worldwide sales and marketing for the second largest material handling systems supplier in the industry. In FY 2001, FKI Logistex increased sales by 15% and attained the industries highest level of profitability that was more than 100% better than our peer group. Total sales exceeded $800 million.

Responsible for operations, marketing and product development for an internet based performance rating system for the construction and A&E industries. Started-up and grew the capabilities of the company, completed the design and developed the company website and database, initiated the business development and sales process, and proved the business model by selling and delivering the product to over 75 customers. Developed and implemented the business plan, the marketing plan and the funding plan.

Responsible for sales and marketing, business development, finance, and new product development at a $4 million tool manufacturer. During a three-year period, the company increased sales by 40% and improved profitability by more than 50%. As an operating partner, I was involved in every aspect of planning and operating the business. Specific accomplishments included:

Strategic planning; business planning; acquisitions

Responsible for vertical market business development and strategic planning. Developed a restructuring plan for the alternate channel (services) business; negotiated development agreements with several major software suppliers; prepared and implemented business plans for the health care, GIS, public safety, banking and manufacturing businesses; developed the pricing strategy for the $700 million software business.

M.M., Marketing And General Management

Bsie, Industrial Engineering

Activities and Societies: Theta Chi