by FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – Gorman’s Home Furnishings & Interior Design today announced John Moray has been named chief executive officer. Owner and Vice President Jeff Roberts is retiring.
Moray most recently served as the home furnishing retailer’s executive vice president, operations and IT. He replaces retiring CEO Tom Lias, who vacates his position in June 2023.
“I am honored to lead a company with such a rich history and a bright future ahead,” Moray said. “Along with Gorman’s talented leadership team, designers and support staff, we’ll continue to deliver new ideas and fresh perspectives our customers return to us for and to ensure that our brand remains a trusted source of style, inspiration and comfort for homes everywhere.”
Following academic studies in international relations, economics and political science at the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, along with an internship with then-Senator Donald Riegle, Jr. in Washington D.C., the now 35-year Gorman’s veteran executive returned home to Detroit to learn Gorman’s business operations.
Moray began his career in the Gorman’s warehouse and quickly became involved in all facets of the company, including buying vehicles for the delivery fleet and managing drivers and inventory. Moray also found use for his information technology skills, developing, implementing, and evolving the company’s networking capabilities and security surrounding its operations.
He previously sat on the board of the National Home Furnishings Association and remains a member. Moray is the son of Gorman’s late Chairman Bernie Moray.
After 45 years of dedicated service, Co-owner and Vice President Jeff Roberts is retiring from the company this month and looks forward to spending time with his family. He began his career at Gorman’s Troy store and was instrumental in the company’s growth and “unwavering commitment to style and quality.” During his career, Roberts also served as a board member of the Michigan Home Furnishings Association for many years.
“It’s been an amazing 45 years that I never could have imagined,” Roberts said. “I’m so appreciative of all the people I’ve had the opportunity to work with and mentor along the way–so many beautiful homes we played a role in bringing to life for their owners and so many long-lasting customer relationships formed. Gorman’s has an unmatched team of professionals, from warehouse to design talent. The company could be in no better hands.”
In addition to new CEO John Moray, Gorman’s retains an experienced management team, including 20-year industry veteran, President Duane Petroskey; 13-year Gorman’s veteran with more than 25 years in the home furnishings sector, Chief Financial Officer Mike Otto; 30-year Gorman’s team member, director of merchandising Sue Drake; and nearly 20-year team member, director of marketing Melissa Smith.
