Supplier BELLA+CANVAS has announced that Norm Hullinger, CAS, will join the company as its first chief operating officer. Most recently, Hullinger was CEO at alphabroder, one of the largest industry suppliers, a role he held since 2012. Prior to becoming CEO, Hullinger was alphabroder’s COO for 10 years, following a diverse career which included executive roles at both technology and retail companies. He also currently serves on the PPAI Board of Directors.

Los Angeles, California-based BELLA+CANVAS has enjoyed significant growth in recent years, requiring major investments to expand its global operating infrastructure. In the past 12 months alone, the company added operations in five countries, expanded its Los Angeles cutting facility—the largest of its kind in the world—and added a 750,000 square-foot distribution center on the East Coast of the U.S to support its wholesale distribution partners.

“The growth of our business necessitated the creation of the COO role, and for us the choice was simple,” says Chris Blakeslee, BELLA+CANVAS’ president. “I personally had the privilege to work closely with Norm for several years at alphabroder and witnessed his leadership, professionalism and drive for results. It’s now my pleasure to welcome him, on behalf of the entire BELLA+CANVAS team, to join our company, where he’ll lead our pursuit for operational excellence and unparalleled service that exceeds our customers’ expectations.”

Hullinger adds, “My relationship with BELLA+CANVAS goes back nearly 15 years, and I’ve admired what the company and team has accomplished both as a partner, and as an industry disruptor. I’m excited to now lead the efforts which will solidify the company’s infrastructure as it becomes the largest basics brand in the industry.”

Read more on this story in Thursday's PPB Newslink.