Home furnishings and décor supplier Southern Enterprises, Inc. has appointed Jim Schmidt senior vp/marketing and merchandising. In the newly created position, he will lead SEI’s efforts in product development, marketing and merchandising.

Schmidt was the president of J2 Consumer Marketing, where he had extensive experience in developing and implementing marketing strategies that accelerated profitable growth for clients, SEI noted. He has spent 25 years working for consumer product companies, developing marketing programs focused on brand and innovative product development, the company added.

“We are very excited to have Jim join us at SEI, and we believe he will play a vital role in our growth and success in 2013 and beyond,” said Mike Horowitz, president of SEI. “He has the necessary experience to make critical decisions about the direction of our product lines and maximizing our marketing and merchandising efforts.”

Schmidt noted, “SEI provides a unique platform to create exciting and innovative new products and partnerships. With industry leading capabilities in direct to consumer fulfillment and consumer services, it is critical to further expand our product leadership.”