Watchfire Signs, which is headquartered in Danville, is getting a new leader. Ben Barr has been promoted to director of sign division sales for the East Coast, succeeding John Kunze, who is retiring. Kunze has been with the company for twenty-six years.
While at Watchfire, Kunze spearheaded and developed the company’s outside sales team of more than 25 representatives. In his new position, Barr will oversee sales reps covering a territory stretching from Alabama to Eastern Canada.
Kunze says the industry has changed significantly over the past 26 years. ‘’Digital signs today are used in all applications, including businesses, schools, churches and even funeral homes,’’ said Kunze. And Kunze added demand for the product has risen from two to four units a week to two to four an hour. ‘’The key now is working with customers and municipalities to understand city zoning,’’ added Kunze. Barr’s experience includes working closely with local municipalities to identify weaknesses in zoning codes affecting electronic message centers, and managing relationships with more than 250 sign companies.
Kunze has been instrumental to Watchfire’s growth over the last two decades, according to Steve Harriott, president and CEO of Watchfire signs. ‘’John’s knowledge, hard work and ability to connect with people have been key to Watchfire’s success,’’ said Harriott in a statement announcing Kunze’s plans to retire. ‘’We are grateful for his service and are confident Ben will be an excellent successor.’’
