Looney Named CFO of PartyLite

William C. Looney has been named chief financial officer of PartyLite, Blyth's direct seller of candles and accessories for the home.  In his new role, Looney will direct PartyLite's essential support services in supply chain and technology in addition to overseeing the finance leaders throughout the organization.

“Bill's direct selling experience and knowledge of PartyLite's overall business make him the obvious choice to fill an expanded role overseeing PartyLite's essential support services,” said Robert B. Goergen, Jr., chief executive officer of Blyth, Inc. and president of PartyLite Worldwide. “His demonstrated understanding of the critical success factors in both supply chain and technology, combined with his strong track record as the lead financial executive at PartyLite Worldwide, will facilitate his continued effectiveness in the organization. Moreover, expanding Bill's responsibilities enables me to retain my leadership position at PartyLite while focusing on my broader role as CEO of PartyLite's parent, Blyth.”

Looney joined PartyLite in 2003 as VP-worldwide finance and, in September of 2008, was promoted to SVP-worldwide finance.  Prior to joining PartyLite, Looney, who holds an MBA from Boston University, was the US controller for Serono, Inc., a leading biopharmaceutical company based in Switzerland.  He also held a number of senior finance positions with The Gillette Company from 1990 to 2002, including both European-based and US-based controllerships.