Newell moves its headquarters and names a new CFO

Fresh off its recent merger of Newell Rubbermaid Inc. and Jarden Corporation, Newell Brands Inc. is making more moves.

The newly combined company is establishing its global headquarters in Hoboken, New Jersey, as well as investing in a second hub for advanced design. It also appointed a new CFO.

“Our new headquarters will serve as an important business hub for our executive team, certain corporate functions and the company’s Transformation Office," said CEO Michael Polk. "It will also enable us to continue expanding our global e-Commerce and Design teams. Having an additional facility for these key functions enables us to drive future growth and innovation for our new portfolio of leading brands."

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority also worked in $27 million in tax incentives for Newell Brands, which will help offset the costs associated with the new facility.

“Our choice to locate these capabilities in our new headquarters represents our commitment to scaling these strategic growth drivers for the size and potential of our new company. Our new location will unlock tremendous access to talent in these areas as we build a new future together,” Polk added.

The new facility is expected to be ready for occupancy in the fall of 2016. The company will continue to maintain its current business hubs in Atlanta, Boca Raton and Norwalk, as well as its design center in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

As for executive appointments, the company has named Ralph Nicoletti, former CFO of Tiffany & Company, to the role of chief financial officer and executive VP, effective June 8.

He has also served as CFO of CIGNA Corporation and Alberto Culver, and held various senior finance positions at Kraft Foods, including senior VP finance of Kraft Foods North America.

“I am very pleased to welcome Ralph to the Newell Brands executive team,” said Polk. “Ralph brings over thirty years of finance experience to the company and has a very strong track record leading financial functions and executing growth strategies at a number of successful publicly-traded, global companies. Ralph’s appointment is indicative of the world-class talent we are attracting as a $16 billion company with a portfolio of leading consumer brands. Ralph will be a key partner to me in helping Newell Brands scale our operating model, deliver our growth and financial objectives, and tell the Newell Brands story to our investors.”

In his new role, Nicoletti will initially focus on capturing the value creation associated with the company’s recent combination with Jarden and driving the company’s efforts to strengthen operating cash flow and streamline cash management.

“I am excited to join Newell Brands during such a transformational time in the company’s history,” said Nicoletti. “The creation of Newell Brands presents many exciting opportunities, and I look forward to leveraging my experience to help the team achieve its business goals, build the finance function, and drive the company to realize its full potential.”

Additionally, current CFO John Stipancich will leave the company to pursue other interests. Former Jarden CFO Al LeFevre left the company upon the closing of the transaction.