There’s been a change in roles amongst Hayneedle leadership. According to a press release published today – prnewswire.com/news-releases – Doug Nielsen (left), chairman, and Carter Cast (right), president and CEO, will exchange their executive management roles. Nielsen, a co-founder of Hayneedle, will become president and CEO, while Cast will assume the role of Chairman. (Photos from hayneedleinc.com)

Today’s press release quoted Nielsen:

Carter has worked tirelessly for the past three years to strengthen and grow our organization, leading us through an incredibly successful evolution from NetShops to Hayneedle.

Carter has moved to the Chairman position in order to concentrate on expanding strategic opportunities for the Hayneedle brand and to drive the long-term strategy for our business. I look forward to doing what I think I do best – pouring my heart and soul into day-to-day operations as we continue to redefine how consumers shop for home furnishings and deliver a superior customer experience.

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Additionally, quotes from Cast were included:

The past three years have been extraordinarily satisfying and I’m confident this exchange of roles with Doug will position Hayneedle for continued growth and success.

Doug and I, supported by the talent and dedication of our entire team, share a clear vision and significant aspirations for the company. Together, we will build on our momentum and continue to expand the Hayneedle brand and business.

To learn more about Nielsen’s background, which includes co-founding GiftPoint.com in 1998, see our article: Hayneedle co-founder Doug Nielsen named UNO Distinguished Alumnus.

To learn more about Cast’s background, which includes an important role in the launch of Walmart.com, see our article and video interview: Stacking Up: Carter Cast brings marketing legacy to Hayneedle.

Here are a few more facts about Hayneedle:

• Hayneedle.com includes 220 stores and counting, each devoted to a single product category
• The company is privately held and funded by Insight Venture Partners and Sequoia Capital
• Hayneedle recently launched the Foundary, a daily deal site for home goods