John C. Campanelli

John C. Campanelli, president and CEO of Los Angeles-based rental powerhouse Classic Party Rentals, resigned his post today.

Classic's acting CEO will be Pedro Mata, according to Classic spokesperson Christine Merser. Mata, who has an extensive operations background including stints at W.R. Grace, is on the board of Classic's owners, Quad C, and as a result "has great familiarity with the inside workings of Classic, allowing him to come in without missing a beat," Merser tells Special Events.

Campanelli, a former printing executive, took the reins at Classic in September 2004. He oversaw a mammoth expansion program that saw the company grow—almost entirely through acquisition—from an 11-unit company operating in two states to more than 35 outlets in California, the Southwest, Southeast, Florida, New York and Washington, offering extensive lines in tabletop, tenting and furniture.

Merser can be reached at Classic headquarters, 310/966-4900, ext 442.

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