Diamond's in the Rough: Behind the Changes at Diamond Glass Company

It seems like only yesterday, because it was.

The news Thursday that new chief executive officer Doug Boyle and president Karen Christopher were out after only five months stunned the industry, and probably Boyle and Christopher as well. Glassbytes.com™ has also learned that employees were told in an e-mail that both Boyle and Christopher were being relieved of their duties.

Most speculation within the industry centered around two theories: that either the Boyle/Christopher team had somehow done something untoward, or that they were somehow less than competent in their new roles. Those in the know with whom we have spoken (on deep background) have told us neither is the case.

Since taking over on May 1, Boyle and Christopher have made massive changes to the organization. They have changed the name, begun expansion into flat glass, and repositioned Diamond as a safety-conscious, safety-first organization. Most experts say they have also had some success at creating a Diamond brand in a short time, something almost no one in the auto glass industry has done on a national basis.

And, in a radical shift from the past, they have also not been shy about garnering publicity for the company or themselves.

The reason for the dismissal, insiders say, stems from chairman Ken Levine's increasing discomfort with some of the decisions being made. Our sources tell us the issue came to ahead last week upon Levine's return to the offices after being away a few days. "Ken came back and found a good number of the sales staff had been let go … people he's worked with for years," said one. "It was the last straw for him."

Glassbytes.com™ will keep you informed.