KURT L. DARROW
"Over my almost four decades in the furniture industry, I’ve been humbled by the things I have learned and by the meaning of what we do. I’ve developed a real appreciation for how unique our industry truly is. We get to be a special part of someone’s home. We grow up with their family and become part of their cherished memories. Our product often spans generations. In short, I’m extremely proud to be a part of tis amazing industry. So, to the future leaders in our category, while I encourage you to continue to lead in key areas like innovation, design, quality and customer experience, never forget the impact that you make on someone’s life. Together, we transform houses into homes."
Kurt L. Darrow, chairman, president and CEO of La-Z-Boy Incorporated, repositioned and strengthened La-Z-Boy as one of the world’s most recognized consumer furniture brands. Today, the public company is the leading global producer of reclining chairs and the second largest manufacturer and distributor of residential furniture in the United States. During his tenure, the La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries® store system evolved to become the 13th largest furniture retailer in the U.S., with La-Z-Boy branded products sold in 60 countries. The La-Z-Boy family of brands also includes England Furniture, American Drew, Hammary, Kincaid Furniture and Joybird.
Mr. Darrow spent nearly his entire career with La-Z-Boy, beginning in sales and marketing. He expanded the company’s product offering beyond the iconic recliner into a full range of furniture for every room of the home. During a time when the industry was rapidly changing, Mr. Darrow focused the company’s portfolio on keeping only those brands with a strategic long-term fit. By leading a team to transform the company’s global supply chain to include procurement and production, he turned the company’s domestic manufacturing platform into an asset when many U.S. producers were moving offshore, championing the brand’s Made in America status. He carved out a distinct position in the marketplace by offering the customer mass customization of stylish quality furniture with a speed-to-market advantage.
Mr. Darrow’s Board leadership includes the American Home Furnishings Alliance, American Home Furnishings Hall of Fame Foundation, Anti-Defamation League Furniture Division, CMS Energy Corp., Business Leaders of Michigan, ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital, and Monroe County Chamber of Commerce.He has received the Anti-Defamation League American Heritage Award, the American Home Furnishings Alliance Distinguished Service Award and the City of Hope Spirit of Life Award. He holds an honorary doctorate from his alma mater, Adrian College.