GREENVILLE, S.C. – Coleto Brands, the parent company of Progress Lighting and Kichler Lighting, has revamped its leadership structure.
Vijay Shankar, who previously served as executive chairman, will now serve as CEO, the company announced on Friday. Sean Veit, the former CEO, has left the company after four years at the helm.
“This shift in leadership was really focused on unifying the business strategy under a singular leader as we move into our next phase of growth,” said Alyssa Santoli, senior manager, brand communications.
“This team carved out two legacy lighting companies and combined them into one lighting powerhouse,” Veit said in a LinkedIn post. “Most teams struggle to deal with one major disruption; this team dealt with two divestitures, a merger, all the process work that comes along with it, while navigating unprecedented market volatility. I couldn’t be prouder of them and more honored to have had the opportunity to lead and position these iconic brands for their next 100 years.”
Shankar was president of Kichler from November 2021 until September 2024, when he was named executive chairman of Coleto.
“He’s been deeply involved in the business and will continue to bring a disciplined execution mindset and focus on driving sustainable growth to Coleto Brands,” said Santoli.
Two others have been promoted. Kristina Christopher, previously vice president of marketing, has been appointed chief marketing officer, and Larissa Caple, previously vice president of operations, is now chief operating officer.
Coleto Brands was created in 2025 as the parent company for Kichler Lighting and Progress Lighting after both companies were acquired by Kingswood Capital Management in 2024.
