Michael Spillane has been named the President and Chief Executive Officer of Malden Mills Industries, Inc. Spillane, the former President for Children’s Apparel & Men’s Underwear and Loungewear at Tommy Hilfiger U.S.A, will begin work at Malden Mills immediately.

Spillane will work closely with the Board of Directors on top strategic priorities for the coming months. These priorities include recruiting key personnel for the new senior management team, including a Chief Financial Officer; increasing profitability through sales growth and cost controls; developing new markets for Malden Mills’ products; and expanding the company’s leadership position in the development of technically advanced products.

Spillane brings 20 years of hands-on financial, textile and apparel experience to Malden’s operation. His previous professional achievements include major profitability turnarounds, leading operational improvement initiatives, and forming strong worldwide business partnerships.

“Malden Mills built its global business reputation on product innovation, quality fabrics and a leadership position in the outdoor apparel industry,” said Spillane. “As CEO, I look forward to working with our customers, vendors and employees to continue that tradition, making Malden Mills stronger than ever.”

“Malden has been positioning itself for growth on several fronts and Michael has the right skills and experience, to lead the company to the next level,” said Richard McCaffery, Chairman of the Board’s Management Selection Committee that led the search. “We conducted an exhaustive search over the last nine months and Michael was a clear standout. His ability to grow revenue and create value makes him an ideal leader for Malden Mills.”

David Orlofsky, the company’s interim Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, said, “Michael’s background in strategic marketing and branding, combined with his senior management experience, will be a great asset to the company. His hiring is another important step on Malden’s path to prosperity. We are excited about Michael coming on board.” Mr. Orlofsky, of the consulting firm Kroll Zolfo Cooper, will continue as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer for a transitional period while the senior management recruitment efforts continue to conclusion.

Spillane said he will be exploring new marketing, branding and product development initiatives. “The Polartecâ and Polarfleeceâ brands stand for quality and performance and represent tremendous opportunities for growing in new directions,” he said. “With the kind of long term, top quality trade customers Malden Mills is so fortunate to enjoy relationships with, along with the avid support among consumers, the opportunities for extension and expansion of Malden Mills’ portfolio of products and brands are plentiful and exciting.”

Spillane, of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, was President for Children’s Apparel & Men’s Underwear and Loungewear at Tommy Hilfiger U.S.A. from 2002 to 2004. Spillane has also held senior leadership positions at Jockey International as President of Designer Brands, and at Missbrenner, Inc., as Chief Executive Officer.