Australian bedding company Forty Winks has appointed Daniel ‘Pancho’ Gutstein as the new CEO, effective from mid-January 2024.
This will immediately follow from Pancho’s exit from Puma after 15 years, most recently as its general manager for the Oceania region when his team tripled the market’s turnover since 2017.
Prior to moving to Australia, Pancho was the senior vice president of merchandising reporting to the president of Puma in North America.
“I value Forty Winks’ candour, commitment to family, and the intent to create a legacy for the next generation,” Pancho said. “The company has a great sense of determination, confirmed by its long-standing history as one of the nation’s most trusted bedding experts.
“I look forward to helping shape the next chapter in the Forty Winks story and continuing to deliver on the brand’s commitment to help more Australians ‘Go to better sleep’.”
Chairperson Guyan Stroud welcomed Gutstein to Forty Winks ahead of the company’s 40th birthday.
“Pancho’s global business and strategic leadership expertise, combined with his enduring passion for retail, will amplify our future growth ambitions,” Stroud said.
“We are excited by, and confident in, his ability to lead our heritage brand into its fourth decade, building brand momentum and sales for our franchisees, and continuing to deliver exceptional products and services for new and existing customers.”