Kourtney Smith Named President of Kimball Hospitality

Kimball International

has named Kourtney Smith as president of

Kimball Hospitality

. Smith has been with the Indiana-based organization for more than 25 years, starting out in the company’s customer service department upon graduating college, and most recently holding the title of vice president of marketing. In her new role, Smith will be responsible for leading the hospitality furniture solutions provider into the future. Smith says that this is an exciting time for the hospitality furnishings industry, and the appointment gives her the opportunity to “take a good organization with great people to the next level.”

“Right now the market is very strong and there’s a lot of demand in the hospitality industry, so we have the opportunity to take advantage and capitalize in that growth,” she says. “[Business] owners are looking to invest in their properties or build new properties, so one emerging need we’re seeing is the need for shorter lead times.”

In addition to shortening lead times to fulfill client projects more quickly and efficiently, Smith says that, on her watch, she hopes to provide consistency as the company heads into the future.

In a written statement announcing the promotion, Don Van Winkle, president and chief operating officer of Kimball International says, “I’ve worked with Kourtney for many years and have always been impressed with her vision, leadership, decision making, and ability to drive meaningful transformation. She brings energy, enthusiasm and passion to everything she leads.”