MONROE, Mich. — La-Z-Boy has hired Havertys veteran David Koehler as regional vice president of sales in the newly created South Central region, covering all or parts of seven states.

Koehler most recently was Texas regional manager and Dallas stores general manager for Atlanta-based Havertys.

He spent 21 years at the retailer in posts including general manager of Washington, D.C., stores and assistant vice president of operations.

John Gill, former GM in Washington, is now in the Texas job for Havertys.

At La-Z-Boy, Koehler reports to Greg White, vice president of merchandising and sales.

La-Z-Boy created new sales regions earlier this year to allow managers to spend more time in the field working with sales representatives. Koehler, who will be based in Dallas, is the first vice president in South Central, which includes Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and the southern areas of Missouri and Kansas.

“David is an experienced professional who has a great understanding of the industry,” said White. “His understanding of the retail landscape and the furniture industry will make him an excellent leader for our sales reps and retailers throughout the South Central region.”