Updike Named President of Miles Kimball

Gifts cataloger Miles Kimball has promoted Vicki Updike to president, effective Feb. 1. Updike joined Miles Kimball in 2002 as a marketing manager; she most recently served as vice president of marketing.

Miles Kimball brands include Miles Kimball, Walter Drake, Exposures, Easy Comforts, As We Change and The Home Marketplace. Updike was a key leader during the integration of Walter Drake, acquired in 2004, and As We Change, which was purchased in 2008.

The Oshkosh, WI-based mailer, founded in 1935, is a division of home fragrance and decor manufacturer Blyth. Updike will continue to report to Stan Krangel, president of the Blyth Catalog & Internet Group.

Krangel, who joined Miles Kimball as president in 2006, has also been named president of Boca Java and has relocated to the Boca Java offices in Deerfield Beach, FL.

Blyth purchased Boca Java, an online marketer of premium, roasted-to-order gourmet coffee company, in 2005. The unit acquired Cafe Belmondo in 2008.