Chicago—Maurice “Moe” Desmarais has been appointed executive director of the National Association of Floor Covering Distributors (NAFCD). He replaces Mariann Gregory, who announced her retirement after 13 years of leading and managing the organization.

Desmarais has held management positions with industry associations for 25 years. During that time, he spent 16 years in wholesale distribution as executive vice president of the New England Wholesalers Association, New York State Plumbing and Heating Wholesalers and executive director of the American Supply Association.

Gregory has been instrumental in organizing the NAFCD’s new strategic plan, including its inaugural NAFCD Distributor Marketplace which will take place Oct. 19 and 20, noted Scott Hendricks of Central Distributing and the organization’s past president.

“We are very grateful to Mariann for her leadership and guidance over the years,” he said. “She has been a friend, partner and counselor to this association and its members. Both the volunteer leaders and members are deeply indebted to her faithful service not only to the NAFCD but to the floor covering industry as well.”

Gregory was also active in numerous industry organizations, including the Carpet Industry Issue Council, National Association of Wholesalers (NAW), the Floor Covering Industry Foundation (FCIF), Floor Covering Consumers Credit Association and Chicago Floor Covering Association.

“We wish Mariann well in her future endeavors and are looking forward to working with Moe,” concluded Hendricks.

For more about the NAFCD, call 312/321-6836.
—Kathlene Vercellino