International Certified Flooring Installers Association (CFI) has announced that Robert Varden is stepping down as executive director. A flooring industry veteran with more than 40 years of experience, Varden became executive director in 2012, succeeding founder and former director Jim Walker.
Varden stated that although he’d been considering this move for a while, he wanted to stay through the annual National Installer of the Year Competition at The International Surface Event (TISE).
“It has been an absolute honor and privilege to be a part of CFI for over 20 years,” he said. “I couldn’t be prouder of the impact we’ve had on thousands of installers and the entire flooring industry. I have decided the time has come to hand off the reins to another passionate professional and allow others to step up to contribute their ideas, energy and passion to this amazing organization.”
He added, “In no way am I abandoning CFI and all its remarkable members. I’m at a point in our journey where I feel I can do as much if not more on the outside as I continue to promote quality installation and professionalism throughout this industry. I leave with the knowledge that the organization stands on a solid financial and programmatic foundation. The board and I are confident that CFI is in the capable hands of the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA), the CFI staff led by John McHale, and an incredible group of individuals that make up the CFI advisory board.“
WFCA CEO Scott Humphrey noted, “Robert’s tenure and list of accomplishments at CFI are only part of his legacy. His passion and genuine desire to grow and advance the floor covering installation industry have been critical to the organization’s growth and expansion. He will be missed.”
For more information, visit https://cfiinstallers.org.
