Gary Austein, who for 17 years was vice president of sales, independent division, for Royal Chain, announced his retirement in early January.
A successor has not been named by the New York City–based company. However, Kamran Melamed will manage the division on an interim basis.
Austein started out as a retailer in New York City but closed his business after sustaining a serious robbery.
“This is a much-deserved decision for Gary, and while we are sad to see such a pillar of our company move on, we find comfort in the legacy he has left for us to build upon,” said Royal Chain president and founder Paul Maroof in a statement.
Last January, Royal Chain lost another devoted member of its sales force when longtime salesman Rick Wolf died.
(Image courtesy of Royal Chain)
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