Dalton, Ga.—Hoy Lanning of JJ Haines will be joining the Floor Covering Education Foundation’s (FCEF) board of directors. Lanning announced his retirement from JJ Haines last year. With his retirement date nearly here, Lanning said he is looking forward to using his wealth of experience in the flooring industry to help guide the FCEF.
“We’re honored and excited that Hoy is willing to continue his work in the flooring industry through his participation on our board,” said Jim Aaron, executive director of FCEF. “His keen business sense and in-depth understanding of our industry will be a great benefit to the FCEF team.”
Lanning will take on this new role effective immediately, join his first in-person board meeting in the spring and will begin advising the FCEF team. “I’ve enjoyed a long career in the flooring industry,” Lanning said. “Retirement is always bittersweet and this position on the FCEF board will allow me to stay connected to my industry and help ensure the industry can grow and thrive for many years to come.”
In his role working for one of the largest distributors of flooring products, Lanning said he has experienced the challenges of a diverse industry with everything from small independent retailers to large enterprises. He is credited with turning around the business at JJ Haines and attacking the organization’s biggest problems head on, according to the company.
“Hoy’s ability to address challenges head on and focus on solutions is a huge strength,” Aaron said. “And we’re glad that we’ll be able to add that strength to our exceptional board of directors.”
The FCEF Board of Directors consists of representatives from manufacturers, retailers and industry organizations to provide a wide range of perspectives to solving an industry-wide issue – the shortage of qualified installation craftsmen.