In this newly created position designed to enhance CCA Global Partners' position as a leader in global markets, Gould will work to maximize the company's value, and efficiency of the product development and delivery processes for its 13 affiliate companies.

As chief product officer, Gould will utilize his global perspective on retail industries combined with a visionary approach to product development to leverage relationships that span retail, distribution and manufacturing. He will report directly to co-CEO's Alan Greenberg and Howard Brodsky and will be based out of CCA Global's St. Louis headquarters.

"Jim has the proven ability to develop strategies for increasing profitability with cutting-edge products designed to meet our members' needs," said Greenberg. "His global market experience and relationships within the retail sector will help our company identify new opportunities and increase the collaboration among our supply chain partners."

"As CCA Global's businesses continue to expand and evolve, it's essential that we streamline our entire product development process to take it to the next level," added Brodsky. "We look forward to Jim leading this essential part of our business and know his efforts will be a contributing part of CCA's future success."

Prior to joining CCA Global Partners, Jim Gould spent 35 years as owner and operator of Misco Shawnee, Inc., one of the country's largest flooring distributors, founded by his family in 1912. Recognized for his leadership and forward thinking, Gould made several strategic moves during his career that have had significant impact on the direction of the flooring industry.

In 1991, he started Distribution Services Inc., which later facilitated Pergo's entrance into the U.S. in 1993. Gould was also instrumental in negotiating Misco as Pergo's first U.S. distributor.