USA : Staffaroni to serve as Executive Consultant to Heelys

February 2, 2008

The board of directors of Heelys Inc has accepted the resignation of Michael G. Staffaroni, Heelys' CEO since 2001, effective.

Ralph T. Parks, former President and Chief Executive Officer of FootAction USA, will serve as interim CEO. Parks was named to Heelys' board of directors on January 29, 2008. An executive search firm will be retained to identify a Chief Executive Officer.

"Mike joined Heelys at the company's inception in 2000 and his contribution has been immeasurable," stated Gary L. Martin, Chairman of Heelys' board of directors.

"He worked tirelessly to build Heelys into a global brand and was instrumental in the company's initial public offering." Staffaroni will serve as an executive consultant to Heelys for one year to assist with the transition in management.

Parks, who has more than 40 years of experience in the footwear industry, began his career as a sales associate for Kinney Shoes, a division of The Woolworth Corporation now known as Foot Locker Inc.

He joined FootAction USA in 1987 and assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer in 1991, where he remained until his retirement.

During his tenure, the company grew from 48 stores to a national chain with 565 store locations and sales exceeding $650 million. Parks was inducted into the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame in 2000.

"Heelys is a unique product that's already changed the youth footwear industry," said Parks. "It'sexciting to come aboard and contribute to the company's growth and expanded product portfolio."

Heelys Inc

Source @ Fibre2fashion