NEW YORK--Michael Jemal has been named chairman of the board for Haier America, and Shariff Kan has been promoted to president of the company’s newly created White Goods Group.
The moves are part of a restructuring of the company by Jemal, who founded Haier America in 1999 and who was president and chief executive officer. In his new role, Jemal will lead the company’s strategic-planning efforts and assist in the company’s globalization program. Kan, previously Haier America’s executive vice president, will take over responsibility for the company’s day-to-day operations; lead the new group, which encompasses the company’s major appliances and air conditioners; and direct efforts to grow the brand in North America and South America.
Kan reports to Haier America’s board of directors, which include Jemal and senior executives from Haier China, according to a company statement. A decision as to whether the company will designate a replacement for Kan as executive vice president will be made later this year, according to a Haier American spokesman.