Thomas Bendheim, 42, new president of the Colibri Group, one of America's best-known suppliers to jewelers, plans to “build on the success” of its several product categories, “become more important” to its customers, and “expand the franchise,” he told JCK.
However, he's doing it without active input from Frederick N. Levinger, 68, who built the company into a $100 million business but resigned as Colibri's nonexecutive chairman in February (see sidebar).
Bendheim was named president and chief executive officer in December by the investors group that bought Colibri in June from Levinger, whom he succeeded. He has a strong background in marketing, sales, corporate management, and “spotting competitive advantages and highlighting where to grow,” he told JCK in January. He's also known for business turnarounds, including reviving the Rheingold beer company and Dooney &am