PICKERINGTON, Ohio, June 9, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- R.G. Barry Corporation (Nasdaq:DFZ) has named Jose G. Ibarra to the newly created position of Senior Vice President - Treasurer and has designated Mr. Ibarra to succeed Senior Vice President - Finance and Chief Financial Officer Daniel D. Viren upon his retirement.
"One of the critical goals of our succession planning is to identify, develop and retain our best people," Mr. Viren said. "I have worked closely with Jose since hiring him in 1989. I know from first-hand experience that he has the knowledge, focus and drive necessary to succeed as CFO. I believe that his selection as my successor perfectly illustrates our commitment to building a strong, focused organization that is well equipped to successfully address the challenges of tomorrow."
"Jose will bring continuity and a broad perspective to the critical role of CFO," said Greg Tunney, R.G. Barry Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer. "He is a respected member of our senior management team. He knows our business and understands our vision for the future."
During his 18-year career with the Company, Ibarra, 49, has held numerous accounting and finance positions including vice president treasurer, vice president corporate controller, director of finance for international operations and manager of internal audit. Before joining R.G. Barry, he held internal audit management positions with the New York-based international audit group of Philip Morris Management Inc.; and worked in external auditing with Ernst & Young, LLP in the southwestern U.S.
Ibarra is CPA and holds an undergraduate degree in accounting and an MBA in international trade from Texas A&M International University.
He resides in New Albany with his family.
About R.G. Barry Corporation
R.G. Barry Corporation, the Dearfoams(r) company, is one of the world's leading developers and marketers of accessory footwear. Visit us online at www.rgbarry.com to learn more about our business.