paul hunt broyhill
Paul Broyhill (b.1924 d.2021), past chairman of Broyhill Furniture Industries, worked in the family plants from an early age. He graduated from the University of North Carolina, then served three years in the U.S. Army as an infantry sergeant. He returned to graduate with honors in Business Administration including Phi Beta Kappa membership.
Under his direction, six million square feet of modern manufacturing facilities were built. He traveled to Europe in his quest for the most modern technology, and bought the most modem machinery.
With the help of Bill Stevens, his brother-in-law, he developed an internal "Broyhill University." Many industry leaders today are graduates.
He was one of the first to establish a profit sharing plan for employees whose numbers grew from 1,000 to 7,500 by 1985. He also instituted an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Sales doubled on the average of every seven years under his leadership, approaching $350 million when the company was sold.
Paul was a marketing innovator seeking exposure through national game shows and shelter magazines. He made personal appearances at over 250 Broyhill Showcase Galleries.
He served on the Board of Directors of AFMA, receiving their "Man of the Year" award in 1996. He also served with the Dallas Market Center, and National Association of Manufacturers.
His substantial philanthropy includes pages of educational, religious, philanthropic and civic contributions.