Mark Klein has left his role as CEO of Innovative Hearth Products (IHP) effective Friday, Oct. 7, 2016. For 18 years he served as president and CEO of what would emerge as today’s Innovative Hearth Products in 2012. His leadership was crucial in acquiring investors and turning FMI around after its parent company, Desa International, declared bankruptcy in 2008.

Klein’s credibility and leadership was key in merging Lennox Hearth and FMI to ultimately form IHP, and in relocating the bulk of IHP manufacturing to a new Russellville, Alabama, facility under his design and direction.

His accomplishments and reputation span both the company and the industry. He daily demonstrated precisely what you would want in the character of a CEO: leadership, care for people, courage, tenacity and a contagious optimism. He has graciously agreed to consult as a Strategic Advisor to the new CEO, and to continue to serve as a member of the company’s Board of Directors.

Dennis Allen.

Dennis Allen Announced as New CEO

Dennis Allen has joined IHP as CEO. He said, “Mark Klein is a tough act to follow. He has been a committed leader, and an exceptionally helpful counselor to me in learning about this very good company. I’m appreciative that Mark will continue to help us think about the future, develop new products and serve on the Board to build value in IHP. Thank you Mark!”

On Monday, Oct.10, 2016, all CEO direct reports will transition to Allen. All other reporting chains remain unchanged.

Dennis Allen’s C-suite experience spans 16 years in privately/closely held industries across manufacturing and distribution operations in building materials (Jones Stephens & Klumb Lumber), mid and downstream oil & gas (Aaron Oil Company & ASAP Industries), electronics manufacturing (GEC Marconi), and CAD/CIM software (ATI). He will reside near Russellville, with his wife Karen, to focus on IHP’s primary manufacturing facility.

About Innovative Hearth Products

IHP, with offices in Nashville, Tennessee, and Santa Ana, California, is a national leader in indoor and outdoor gas- and wood-burning fireplaces; wood-, gas- and pellet-burning fireplace inserts and stoves; and hearth venting products. The company manufactures products for residential new construction and remodel end markets.