CHERRY, a leading global manufacturer of computer input devices and switches for mechanical keyboards, today announced the appointment of Richard Simone as CEO of Cherry Americas. Simone has more than 20 years of executive experience in consumer and B2B technology and commerce.
“CHERRY is a premier global brand known for superior product quality, style, and ergonomic design,” said Simone. “My goal is to significantly expand our footprint in both consumer and B2B markets. To that end, we’re planning to bring a slew of exciting new products to market, while we substantially expand our presence in both traditional and digital commerce channels. I’m proud to join a passionate and highly capable team here at Cherry.”
“This is an exciting time for Richard to join our company, said Rolf Unterberger, CEO of Cherry GmbH. “We want more American consumers and organizations to experience the CHERRY difference. Richard possesses the experience and leadership capabilities we need to achieve that goal.”
Simone has an extensive background in product strategy, sales and merchandizing. He was vice president of sales and merchandizing for Samsung Techwin America, a leading maker of video surveillance products, acquired by The Hanwha Group. Prior to Samsung, he held a variety of executive positions at Panasonic, including vice president of sales and merchandizing, working across all of its key consumer product lines. Before that, Simone was a divisional vice president with Office Max.
About Cherry
CHERRY GmbH, headquartered in Auerbach in der Oberpfalz, Germany, is the world’s leading manufacturer of premium mechanical switches for the PC gaming keyboard market. Cherry is also a leading global manufacturer of computer input devices with a focus on the Gaming, Office, Industry, Security and Healthcare markets. Cherry employs approximately 400 people in production plants and corporate branches in Germany, France, UK, China and the USA. Founded in 1953, the Cherry brand is synonymous with “German-quality” products that are designed and developed specifically for the needs of its customers.