O’Shea is known within the pool and spa industry as a results-oriented, high-energy sales and marketing leader with a track record of success — O’Shea has previously held leadership roles in the sales departments of other companies in the pool and spa industry, and brings that expertise, as well as experience in product development and the manufacturing process, to SilkBalance.
The position was created as a result of continued sales growth in North America, and according to Joe Dolnik, director of SilkBalance, the goal is to push the brand’s success to an international platform.
“Steven’s focus will be to re-energize our current dealers, bring on more quality dealers for the US and international markets and to continue to develop SilkBalance into a worldwide brand,” Dolnik says.
Industry Veteran to RetireAnthony & Sylvan Pools, an in-ground swimming pool and spa builder in business for nearly 70 years, announced that its longtime president, Howard P. Wertman, has decided to retire at the end of 2013. Additionally, Anthony & Sylvan’s Board of Directors announced that, effective with his retirement, Wertman has been elected to its board of directors.
“Howard’s contributions have been invaluable over the years, and his knowledge of the business is unmatched by any in the industry,” says Stuart Neidus, chairman and chief executive officer for Anthony & Sylvan Pools. “During his 40-plus year career, Howard has become one of the most respected and knowledgeable people in our business and is a true legend within the industry. While he will no longer be involved with the day-to-day activities of the business, we are thrilled to have his continued guidance and input at the board level, which will be extremely important in helping chart the company’s future course.”
Wertman began his career within the pool industry in 1973 with Anthony Industries and quickly climbed the corporate ladder, becoming general manager of the New York Division in 1977. In 1979, Wertman joined Sylvan Pools as general manager of the Philadelphia Division, and in 1986, he relocated to Atlanta to launch both the Atlanta and Charlotte Divisions. While in Atlanta, Wertman started Quality Pool Tile, which grew over the years into what is known today as National Pool Tile, owned by PoolCorp. In 1995, he relocated back to Doylestown when he was appointed President of Sylvan Pools. Under his leadership and guidance, Wertman led the successful merger of Anthony Pools and Sylvan Pools in 1996 to form Anthony & Sylvan Pools.
“I for one am eternally grateful for all Howard has done for Anthony & Sylvan, as well as for me personally,” Neidus says. “Howard has achieved the well deserved privilege of retiring after many very successful years of dedicated service, and we are very proud and happy for him.”
The company has no current plans to replace Wertman at this time.
Registration opens for AC ShowOnline attendee registration for the 2014 Atlantic City Pool & Spa Show is now open. The show will take place January 27-30, 2014 at the Atlantic City Convention Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Education courses will begin on January 27 and run through January 30. Exhibits will be open from January 28 to January 30.
