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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Veteran consumer packaged goods executive Patrick Spear has taken the reins as president of the Global Market Development Center (GMDC).
Veteran consumer packaged goods executive Patrick Spear has taken the reins as president of the Global Market Development Center (GMDC).
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Patrick Spear |
GMDC said Tuesday that Spear became president of the trade association effective Nov. 1. Plans call for Dave McConnell, GMDC president and chief executive officer, to continue to function as CEO for the near future and work closely with Spear over the next six months to help him transition to the new role.
"It is both an honor and a privilege to join GMDC, an association I have developed a passion for over nearly 20 years," Spear said in a statement. "GMDC’s unique culture and strong member focus are true differentiators in our industry, and I am excited and energized to work with Dave McConnell, our staff and boards and help lead this organization to a very bright future."
GMDC noted that Spear brings more than 25 years of experience in the CPG and office products industry to its senior management team. He began his career with Bic Corp. in 1987 and advanced his career in a variety of positions at Newell Rubbermaid, Mapa Spontex, Identity Group and The Highlands Group, as well as being the founding partner and managing director of Mammoth Office Products. His experience runs the gamut from retail sales representative to chief executive/managing director.
"Patrick’s extensive background in our industry, coupled with his intimate knowledge of GMDC as both a supplier member and as a past chairman of the General Merchandise Supplier Advisory Board, allows him to hit the ground running in his new role," stated H-E-B’s Bill Anderson, chairman of GMDC. "His reputation in this industry is stellar, and the skill sets and vision he brings to GMDC will be a tremendous asset to the association."
GMDC serves retailers, wholesalers and suppliers in the general merchandise and health, beauty and wellness product categories.
"I’ve known Patrick as a business associate and friend for over 15 years and had the opportunity to work closely with him when he was extremely active in the GMDC board structure," McConnell commented. "He understands the culture of the association, is an outstanding businessman and has a real passion to take GMDC to the next level during his tenure."
