MMPI adds Collins, Tiedeken for posts at 7 W New York

Staff -- Home Accents Today, 7/1/2005 12:00:00 AM

Merchandise Mart Properties Inc. has appointed Chris Collins vice president and general manager of 7 W New York, the new gift, tabletop and home decor building in Manhattan. In his new role, Collins is responsible for overseeing all 7 W New York business, including leasing and marketing initiatives for permanent and market-time showrooms in approximately 450,000 square feet of space.

"I am thrilled to announce the addition of Chris Collins to the 7 West team," said Joan Ulrich, vice president of leasing and marketing for MMPI's gift industry. "Chris' industry expertise, skill set and strong leadership qualities will build on the exceptional opportunities at 7 W New York."

Collins has held executive positions at Candle Corporation of America and Russ Berrie & Co. as well as served as a consultant for various other gift and tabletop companies.

In addition to Collins, 7 W New York has added Bob Tiedeken as director of leasing, working alongside fellow directors Margaret Powers and Sheila Charton.

Prior to joining 7 W New York, Tiedeken spent the last six years with the Enesco Corporation as the eastern regional sales manager, where he led the nation in sales for three consecutive years.

In a related move, Su Hilty, director of marketing of 7 W New York, who has been on board with MMPI since the fall of 2004, will focus solely on the marketing of 7 W New York and reports directly to Collins.

"Su has been an invaluable member of our team," said Ulrich. "Because of her depth and knowledge of New York and the gift industry as a whole, she will focus on our strategic marketing and advertising campaigns, as well as day-to-day and special market week events. We're very excited about what's ahead."

Hilty currently oversees all advertising, promotional and marketing efforts at 7 W New York.

Chris Collins