The Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Inc. (VTB) has announced the appointment of their new President/CEO, William C. Shouldice IV (Bill). In his new role, Bill will have responsibility for all aspects of the business including marketing, merchandising, operations, IT, Ecommerce,
organizational development, and finance. Bill brings with him a considerable knowledge in the direct-to-consumer business and a passion for the state of Vermont. Prior to joining VTB, Bill was the President and CEO of The Vermont Country Store (VCS), a position that he held for over seven years. Before joining VCS, he was President/CEO of the Orton Family Foundation. He also previously served in government, most notably as the Secretary of Commerce in Vermont for Governor Howard Dean.
As a 5th generation Vermonter, Bill has a great love for the state of Vermont and a full understanding of the importance that VTB plays in the community. “I am excited to have the opportunity to lead a company that has shown an incredible ability to manufacture and deliver quality Vermont products to customers across America,” says Shouldice. “Vermont is fortunate to have one of the most productive and committed employee bases in the country and the dedicated employees at VTB are second to none. When you couple the VTB dedication to premium products and customer service with the world class facilities and infrastructure at VTB, it is easy to see that the future potential for the business is bright.”
"We are extremely excited to bring Bill on board as our CEO to lead Vermont Teddy Bear to its next level ofgrowth and expansion," stated chairman and partner at The Mustang Group, Bob Crowley. "Having a native Vermonter take the helm makes it even more special." Added board member and partner at Fresh Tracks Capital, Cairn Cross, "Bill is a well-known, proven leader here in Vermont and will be a great fit for Vermont Teddy Bear. We are thrilled to have him on board."
The Vermont Teddy Bear Company is one of the largest producers of premium teddy bears and the largest seller of teddy bears by mail order and Internet. The company handcrafts high quality teddy bears in Shelburne, VT and produces almost 300,000 teddy bears each year. The Shelburne Teddy Bear factory is an especially popular tourist destination. VTB also owns Calyx Flowers, a luxury flower company specializing in artistically crafted floral designs, as well as PajamaGram, which specializes in providing pajamas that are comfortable, as well as creative.