Press: Watson Furniture Builds for What’s Next: Sales Leadership Realignment Supports Growth Momentum
Watson Furniture (“Watson”) is pleased to announce strategic sales leadership changes designed to support the company’s strong growth trajectory and deepen field support for its independent sales representative teams nationwide. The realignment follows the departure of Chief Revenue Officer and VP of Sales & Marketing, Sandy Yokeley, who has served as a cornerstone of Watson’s sales organization for the past eight years.
Watson enters this next chapter with momentum; the company is on track to deliver 35% year-over-year growth in its Commercial Division and 30% overall company growth in 2025. These leadership updates are built to sustain that pace—while staying true to what makes Watson, Watson: exceptional products, exceptional people, and a sales strategy grounded in relationships, not shortcuts.
“As we’ve grown, we’ve learned something important; our independent rep teams are not just part of our story—they’re a big reason we’re writing one,” said CK McKenzie, President of Watson. “This sales leadership realignment is about doubling down on support in the field, being clearer about how we show up for our customers, and making sure our structure matches our ambition. We do this by continuing to build around great people.”
Honoring Sandy Yokeley’s Leadership and Lasting Influence
Yokeley’s tenure at Watson spans a period of profound transformation and growth. During her eight years with the company, she helped guide Watson through pivotal business changes, including the post-COVID period, and a generational leadership transition. All while shaping the culture and elevating the expectations of a combined sales and marketing organization. Known as a steady, strategic presence, Yokeley was a definitive resource for the field and internal teams alike, championing both operational excellence and the human side of leadership.
Yokeley shared her gratitude and pride in the team and the culture they built together:
“I’ve been reflecting more deeply than ever on what the last eight years—truly, these twenty-seven in our industry—have meant to me,” said Yokeley. “Leading the Watson sales team has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. They are, without exaggeration, the most talented and resilient group of people I’ve ever had the joy of working with. I’m incredibly proud of the business we’ve grown, the reputation we’ve built, and the culture of trust and heart that has become our hallmark.”
Welcoming Adam Merkl as Regional Sales Manager, Western Territories
Watson welcomes Adam Merkl as Regional Sales Manager for Western Territories. Adam brings more than a decade of experience leading sales efforts at both regional and national levels, with a strong background in contract furniture, design-driven environments, and strategic account management. He has worked closely with independent reps, dealers, and national accounts to drive sustainable growth across diverse markets. In addition to his corporate leadership experience, Adam’s entrepreneurial background as a business co-founder gives him a practical, hands-on perspective on building teams, strengthening relationships, and growing organizations from the ground up.
“Adam’s experience, energy, and strategic mindset are a great match for where we’re headed,” said McKenzie. “He understands how to grow business while respecting what it takes to support reps and partners day-in and day-out.
Donna Sheahan Named Regional Sales Manager, Eastern Territories
Watson also appointed Donna Sheahan the Regional Sales Manager for Eastern Territories. Donna brings extensive experience leading regional sales across the U.S. and Canada, with a proven track record of driving growth through both dealers and the A&D community. Having successfully expanded business in both established and emerging territories, Donna consistently delivers meaningful revenue growth across both new and existing accounts.
“Donna knows how to build strong relationships and deliver results,” said McKenzie. “She’s earned trust quickly and understands how to grow business through partnership. Our rep teams and customers are going to enjoy working with her.”
A Structure Built to Support Rep Teams—and Growth
This leadership realignment reinforces Watson’s commitment to its independent rep teams by strengthening the company’s field support and establishing clear, accountable regional leadership focused on partner success. Watson is also actively seeking its next Chief Revenue Officer, a role that will further deepen strategic leadership and add long-term depth to the commercial organization.
“As we keep growing, the work isn’t to become something new or different,” said McKenzie. “The work is to continue getting better at being who we’ve always been—a company that offers the best product solutions partnered with the best problem-solving and service in the industry. This evolution is designed to do exactly that.”
For more information about Watson Furniture visit watsonfurniture.com.
About Watson
Since 1966, Watson has built furniture for people shaping how work gets done. From our home in Poulsbo, Washington, we design for those who take pride in doing things right: people who balance purpose with performance and expect the same from their partners. Every piece is made to work hard, look good, and stand the test of time – built the right way, not the easy way – by a team that cares as much as our customers do.
