CHICAGO—Europa has announced key promotions and new hires to its leadership team. Dawn Ward has been promoted from sales director to vice president of sales. Kathleen Crowley has been promoted from sales manager to director of sales. Michael (Mick) Kunish is joining Europa as director of business development. Finally, Nancy Norris has been promoted from controller to vice president of finance. In an announcement, Europa said, “Each of these individuals has worked hard to achieve this next phase of their careers, and Europa is proud and fortunate to have them in such influential positions.”

Dawn Ward, now vice president of sales, will oversee the work of Europa’s directors of sales and work closely with the executive team to continue to help shape the company’s overall strategy and culture. Jerry Wolowicz, president, said, “Dawn has done an exemplary job in every position she has held over her 12 years at Europa. She has displayed a clear ability to understand and execute complex and long term decision-making, and has gained the confidence of all her colleagues.”

Kathleen Crowley, now director of sales, will take on further responsibilities managing and pursuing key accounts, and help shape the overall direction of the sales department. Scott Shapiro, CEO, said, “Throughout her 9 years at Europa, Kathleen has exhibited an incredible energy and an extraordinary ability to share her enthusiasm for Europa with her customers and colleagues.”

Mick Kunish, who is joining Europa as director of business development, brings with him a robust history inside and outside the optical industry. He has held executive positions at Tommy Hilfiger, Viva and Mondottica. Shapiro said, “His experience and dedication have earned him unique insight and deep relationships which will help make him a valuable addition to the Europa team. It will also position him well to manage our relationships with doctor alliance and buying groups, and contribute to Europa’s key accounts strategy.”

Nancy Norris, now vice president of finance, will oversee the accounting, finance, accounts payable and accounts receivable departments, while also contributing to the executive team in shaping Europa’s future. Wolowicz said, “Nancy has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to our company since she joined us 9 years ago, and has become an essential part of our team. Throughout 2020 particularly, when Europa was experiencing some of the most significant challenges in its history, Nancy was absolutely central to our resiliency and recovery.”