Dave Saracino, BIC Graphic North America’s senior vice president of business development, has decided to retire, effective immediately, after 36 years of service with the Clearwater, Florida-based supplier. Saracino made an incredible impact on both BIC Graphic and the promo industry over the course of his career, says a news release issued by the company on Monday.
After starting with BIC Graphic in 1985 as a retail sales representative in Toronto, Ontario, Saracino was promoted through several different sales roles in Canada and the U.S. before being named vice president of field sales for all of North America in 2009. In his most recent position as senior vice president of business development, Saracino worked as an energetic ambassador for BIC Graphic and is credited with playing an integral role in establishing future business strategies for the supplier.
“We’ll fondly remember Dave for the ‘Saracino Way,’ his distinct approach to how our organization presented itself at customer events, trade shows and in our day-to-day business. He set an excellent example for raising the bar every time he hosted our customers, going above and beyond to make their experiences exceptional,” says David A. Klatt Jr., BIC Graphic CEO. “Dave made such an impression with our own team that walking around with him at any of our facilities was like being with a celebrity. People were always happy to see Dave and he knew everyone.”
His tireless support of BIC Graphic made him an icon in the promo industry, known for his deep knowledge of promotional products, his willingness to help everyone and his ability to keep clients thoroughly motivated and entertained. Saracino’s passion was recognized in 2016 when he received the ASI Marvin Spike Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the industry’s top honors.
“My love for this business goes way beyond promotional products,” says Saracino. “This industry is unique because you don’t just maintain great relationships with your colleagues but form real friendships with both clients and competitors. That’s what makes it truly special. I’m excited to tackle what’s next but will certainly miss interacting with my promo family every day.”
The BIC Graphic North America Leadership Team thanks Saracino for his leadership, dedication and service to the organization, says the release. Retirement celebrations for Saracino are being planned at BIC Graphic’s Minnesota and Florida facilities when it is safe to gather together again.
