The Bed Store, a seven-store sleep shop chain in eastern Tennessee, has hired David Kent as its first chief operating officer.
With extensive management experience spanning nearly three decades, Kent brings leadership to the Knoxville, Tennessee-based team during a planned period of growth, according to a news release. As COO, Kent leads operations and directs the company’s finance marketing and administrative functions.
Most recently, Kent was director of the VolShop, the official campus retailer for The University of Tennessee. During his 13-year tenure, he opened new retail locations and was responsible for aspects of strategic planning, product development and customer service. Prior to that, Kent spent 12 years in management-level positions with retailer J.C. Penney Co.
“Kent joins The Bed Store with a wealth of retail operations experience at mid- to large-size organizations,” said Roger Cunningham, Bed Store chief executive officer and principal. “We are thrilled to have a steady hand at the operational helm as we continue to expand our business and broaden our customer base.”
Kent, who reports to Cunningham, said he is looking forward to helping the company as it moves forward. “The Bed Store is experiencing accelerated growth with the success of its existing locations and its planned expansion into new markets,” he said. “It is a tremendous pleasure to join Roger and The Bed Store team.”