Downlite promotes from within for business development

Hailey Werthaiser Parnes

Mason, Ohio – Downlite’s newly appointed business development exec literally grew up in the down & feather industry.

Hailey Werthaiser Parnes, who has been promoted to VP of business development for the outdoor division, is the only daughter of Marvin Werthasier, owner and one of the original founders of Downlite.

She joined the manufacturer after working for some time in education. Growing up, she was exposed to the world of down & feather processing from a young age and frequently joined her father on many trips to trade shows, sitting with him in the meetings with customers and suppliers.

“I often think about, and truly appreciate how lucky I was, to gain so much experience at a young age.” she said. “I learned so much from my father during those years. Downlite is a unique family business that is growing tremendously. To be a part of this and work with people I have known all of my life and the new team members who have since joined the Downlite family, has been and continues to be, an incredible journey for me.”

Downlite CEO Joe Crawford said the promotion was well-earned.

“Hailey grew up in this industry, travelled with her father domestically and around the globe, and has deep understanding of sourcing, quality and down processing. This gives Hailey a unique perspective in a unique industry. It is not possible to overstate Hailey’s value to Downlite’s outdoor division and we look forward to Hailey’s continued contributions as she steps into this new role.