Commercial furniture manufacturer Versteel announced that experienced industrial designer Jacklyn Ady has accepted the position of director of product design and development.
The multi-faceted designer comes to Versteel with a variety of experiences in the design research, sports retail and children’s toys industries, among others. Most recently an independent design consultant, Ady has a Master of Business Administration degree from Nagoya University of Commerce and Business and a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial design from the University of Cincinnati’s prestigious College of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to bring my perspective on design thinking to Versteel, a manufacturer with a decades-long tradition of quality and craftsmanship,” said Ady. “I value flexibility, collaboration and solving problems from a human-centered mindset, and look forward to working with this incredible team.”
In this expanded role for Versteel, Ady will leverage her business acumen and creative approach to product and development to support Versteel’s ever-evolving brand and portfolio. Her proven dedication to design and process will further strengthen the company’s commitment to providing innovative, quality products with outstanding customer service.
“We’re pleased to welcome Jacklyn to the leadership team at Versteel,” said Versteel President Scott Schwinghammer. “I look forward to working with her in developing and presenting next-generation products to our dynamic customer base.”
Prior to her most recent work as a design consultant, Ady was an industrial designer at Escalade Sports, where she collaborated with engineers to create new, innovative product designs in the ever-changing sports retail market.
“Purchasing furniture is a commitment; pieces placed within offices are central fixtures in employees’ daily lives, and those inside institutions and universities serve users for decades,” said Ady. “Getting to design and develop furniture is an incredible responsibility as we aim to provide the quality and service our customers expect and deserve.”
Ady is based at Versteel headquarters in Jasper, Indiana, and her position was effective September 2019.