Vision, Strategy & Tactics

Ken joined the company in 1967 after spending time in national account sales and marketing management roles with major CPG companies. Ken then led the expansion of the Madden business model – which specialized in serving the needs of HBC and general merchandize partners in the drug, grocery and mass merchandise channels operating in the northeast and mid-Atlantic regions. During that period of time, the company had the opportunity to help with the launch of some major brands such as Nivea, Oil of Olay and Wella in the HBC sector. In addition, using the business model that we created, we also set up a national merchandising program for Richardson / Vick to support the national launch for Oil of Olay. The next phase of our development occurred with the advent of national retailers and national brokers; the company made the decision to change the business model to serve select channels (chain drug & wholesale clubs) which is what we are focused on today. Recognizing the fact that “data drives decisions “, the company has made significant investments in technology to assist in delivering “data driven “results for our client and trade partners in selective channels on a national scale. Although the company embraces the fact that “the only constant is change”, Ken has also always been ahead of the curve on technology and innovation which is necessary to build sustainable business for our client and trade partners.

One of 9 individuals who started and pioneered BJ’s Wholesale Club, was an integral part in growing the revenue from its inception to 12+ Billion in 25 years. Former BJ’s Senior VP: Perishables/Grocery/DSD/Beer/Wine/Liquor. Excellent merchant/sales skills that aided in the growth of exclusive restaurant branding i.e. Pizzeria Uno, Romano’s Macaroni Grill, Chili’s, Boston Market, TGI Friday’s, Panera Soups and Legal Sea Foods. Created Wellsley Farms brand for BJ’s Wholesale Club, which continues to dominate the penetration of their private label. Turnkey sales expertise in all phases from sourcing, production, packaging, costing, marketing -product ready for the club presentations. A visionary and dynamic innovator who pushes the boundaries on empowering entrepreneurial thinking in developing brands, categories and products.

Recent Addition to the MGS team bringing over 30 years merchant experience in perishables, food, sundries and personal care with BJ’s Wholesale Club. Former VP, DMM of Consumables, Bonnie is a highly motivated, performance driven leader with a solid history of success in sales, merchandising and customer service. A result orientated individual who is passionate about forging highly effective business partnerships and driving strategic growth.

Joined MGS in 2023 with over 25 years’ merchant experience in category management, product management and brand management for several healthcare and CPG companies including Cardinal Health, Invacare, Compass Health Brands and Lifetime Brands. His broad background includes retail, distribution, and manufacturing. Peter has a consistent history of working collaboratively with vendors and retailers to drive profitable sales growth and is skilled in strategic planning, sourcing, pricing, merchandising, sales promotion, and assortment planning. Peter’s prior experience includes working with chain drug, warehouse clubs, home improvement, grocery and on-line retailers.

Joined MGS in 2022 with over 9 years in retail experience and 6 years with category merchant experience and over 2 years in merchant analytics with experience in both grocery and non-grocery segments. Chris spent 8 years at BJ’s Wholesale club working in various roles including Allocation, Associate Merchant, Category Profit Improvement, and Category Merchant. His time at BJ’s allows him to have a deep understanding of what BJ’s requires as well as gives him a great deal of relationships within the organization. Chris has a profound knowledge of data and analytics with experience in Nielsen, Circana (IRI), BJ’s membership card data and insights, and shopper insights and behavior.

Michelle Supports the organization with all financial matters, including payroll, finance and accounting, human resources and banking. She has more than 30 years’ experience in various industries that include utilities, service and manufacturing. Her manufacturing experience provides her with knowledge in the consumer products industry with a deep understanding in supply chain, finance, customer service, marketing and promotion and operations. This background allows her to provide additional support and insight to our clients to help them achieve success.

Xhaklina came to our company in 2015 from a career in retail drug and then as a financial analyst at BTM Capital/PNC Bank. Since coming to Madden, she has demonstrated her expertise in market trends, often helping us to place our clients at the front of a new trend rather than well behind it! She has a great understanding of today’s retail landscape, making her invaluable in assessing why a product is working or why it is not. These insights help our clients maximize their profitability as there is more to success than just a low price point.

Barbara has been with us since 2008 after a career in merchandise planning and buying. As the Manager of Customer Service, I enjoy working with clients and building relationships. I pride myself in my communications and problem-solving skills. I enjoy solving puzzles which helps me resolve issues in a timely manner.