Joe Chiusano Resigns from Cusano

Joe Chiusano has stepped down as president of Cusano Cigars. His former duties have been divided between J. T. Guagliardo and Bill Holliway, both heads of marketing and Sales for the Cusano brand, which is owned by Davidoff of Geneva.
Davidoff acquired DomRey Cigar Inc., then the owner of Cusano Cigars, in June 2009, and appointed founder Mike Chiusano as the company's president. In mid-February of 2010, Mike left the company. His brother Joe was named president. Less than a year later, Joe followed his brother's footsteps and abdicated his position as well. Joe Chiusano tendered his resignation on February 1.
Guagliardo and Holliway officially took over operations on March 1. "It's really a team now," said Davidoff president Peter Baenninger. "We're not looking to hire someone else. J.T. and Bill will be responsible for the brand."
Cusano cigars are a value brand produced in the Dominican Republic. DomRey also sells cigars at a higher price under the name Cuvée.
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