Join Our Team: PPAI Careers & Culture

Administrative Assistant

Location: Irving, TX

Reports to: Manager, Sales Operations

Job Summary:

A valued member of the Business Development team, the Administrative Assistant is responsible for executing a variety of administrative, customer service, and sales support activities for the Business Development and Membership departments.

Key Responsibilities:

Customer Service (25%):

• Provide professional customer service to internal teams and external clients. Communicate effectively with the sales team about leads, opportunities, and customer concerns.

PPAI Media & Advertising Support ( 5%):

• Manage the advertising run sheet, process insertion orders, track ad materials, and maintain digital stats. Collect and upload ad materials and manage the PPB circulation list, including address updates, renewals, and cancellations.

Tradeshows & Events ( 5%):

• Support event registration, including processing large list uploads. Assist with sponsorship and advertising sales by managing deliverable reminders, collecting materials, and uploading content to website(s). Manage secondary Product Pavilion responsibilities and assist in sales reporting across departments.

Membership Support (50%):

• Handle membership inquiries, process applications, and ensure compliance with governance policies. Maintain databases, update company profiles, and manage password resets. Follow up with members regarding billing, overdue materials, and other relevant information.

Department Support (15%):

• Provide general administrative support to the business development department as needed, assisting with additional tasks and responsibilities assigned by the Manager or Director.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in administrative support roles.
• At least 3 years of experience in customer service, with a strong client-focused approach.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with reporting systems and generating reports.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Technologically adept and quick to learn new systems and tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Effective time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Specific Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Business or a related field.

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone)

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status

• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
• Compensation: Hourly
• Job Status: Full Time
• Daily Schedule: Flexible
• Work Location: PPAI Headquarters with some remote flexibility

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Graphic Designer 

Location: Irving, TX

Reports to: Senior Creative Services Manager 

Job Summary: 

As a member of the in-house creative team, the graphic designer will serve as an internal agency point of contact for design needs. Responsible for creating visually compelling and on-brand designs for a variety of projects (including print, web, e-mail, video, social, etc).  Cross-functional collaboration with the marketing and creative team members, as well ask internal stakeholders, to brainstorm ideas, develop concepts and deliver project objectives.   

Objectives of this role 

• Thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with a high-volume workload often requiring short turnaround times 
• Raise the bar continually providing visual concepts and designs that connect with a desired audience and drives action 
• Be adept at varying the look, feel and other visual characteristics based on client or project deliverables while remaining within brand guidelines 
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of communication- and client-related industry trends 
• Stay current on the appropriate brand guidelines for consistent look and feel 
• Serves as back-up for digital marketing manager for social media or digital design needs 

Key Responsibilities: 

Graphic Creation & Visual Excellence (70%) 

• Produce original, engaging and compelling designs and effective visual solutions that consistently  align with brand voice and marketing goals to increase engagement.  

Project Management & Workflow Coordination (10%) 

• Actively participate in weekly internal agency creative alignment meetings to ensure consistency in brand messaging, clarity in client goals and alignment across all marketing initiatives.  
• Proactively communicate regular progress updates and transparent project tracking via consistent utilization of the project management platform 100% of the time for all marketing projects, documenting any dependencies or client/stakeholder communications and deliverables.   

Continuous Improvement & Knowledge Sharing (5%) 

• Provide regular content performance insights and recommendations, presenting clear opportunities for design improvements and strategic alignment based on monthly KPI trends and aligning with marketing manager for campaign ROI’s on larger-scale projects. 

Research & Creative Process: (15%) 

• Interpret creative briefs to develop concepts for execution with assigned clients 
• As needed, work with marketing managers to obtain additional research to develop an understanding of a client’s needs and target audiences, which could also include online searches, reviews of existing research, interviews with subject-matter experts and in-person meetings 
• Present design concepts and final deliverables to internal team — and to client representative when requested  
• Revise designs based on internal and client feedback 

Required skills and qualifications 

• Five or more years of professional experience, with solid portfolio of work 
• Ability to work independently or with a team to meet deadlines 
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. 
• Excellent organizational skills and multitasking ability 
• Adept at learning and contributing feedback on new systems and processes. 
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills 
• Expert knowledge of Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator; working knowledge of other design-related programs (Canva, istock, etc). 

Preferred skills and qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in graphic design, art, or related discipline 
• Experience with content management systems 
• Keen eye for detail and appreciation of great design 
• Photography experience and proficiency with photo-editing software 

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Salary
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full-Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel (5%)

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Event Support Administrator

Location: Irving, TX

Reports to: Senior Manager, Events & Expositions

Job Summary:

The Event Support Administrator plays a critical role in assisting the planning, coordination, and execution of the association’s annual Expo and Events. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Events & Expositions, this position provides essential logistical and administrative support to ensure smooth operations and successful event outcomes.

Travel Requirements:

This role may require travel to support key events, including:

January: The PPAI Expo

May: North American Leadership Conference (NALC)

June: Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC)

September: Responsibility Summit

October: Leadership Development Conference (LDC)

If travel is required, we will provide ample notice in advance for each event.

Key Responsibilities:

• Onsite and Pre-Show Support (30%): Assist in various roles before, during, and after events, ensuring smooth operations.
• Event Coordination (25%): Support in organizing and coordinating events and exhibitions, ensuring all assigned logistics details are managed efficiently.
• Administrative Duties (20%): Provide general administrative support, including managing communications and handling special projects.
• Research Assistance (10%): Conduct research projects, vendors, venues or special initiatives, as directed.
• Customer Service (5%): Monitor the Exposition inbox, respond to inquiries, and deliver exceptional customer service.
• Shipping (5%): Coordinate scheduling, packing, and shipping for events.
• Other Duties as Directed (5%): Participate in miscellaneous projects and assignments that support the Expositions & Events team.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in events or administration support.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Exceptional Organizational & Time Management: Ability to multitask, prioritize effectively, and meet tight deadlines.
• Microsoft Office Suite Proficiency: Expertise in Outlook, Word, Teams, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Professional Customer Service: Maintain professionalism, communicate effectively in high-pressure situations

Specific Qualifications:

• Independent and Proactive Work Style: Able to manage tasks efficiently, complete projects, and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Clear & Effective Communication: Comfortable working with both internal teams and external partners to ensure smooth coordination.
• Team-Oriented & Composed Under Pressure: Works well in a collaborative environment and remains steady in fast-paced situation.
• Flexible & Adaptable Approach: Maintains a positive attitude and adjusts effectively to changing needs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Event planning background is preferred but not required. Experience in customer service, administration, or hospitality industries is highly valued.

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status:

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Non-Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Hourly
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full-Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Flexible, Pre-Approved by Manager
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature-controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel, work weekends, and long hours as event scheduling may require

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Meeting Planner

Location: Irving, TX

Reports to: Senior Manager, Events & Expositions

Job Summary:

The Meeting Planner is responsible for supporting the planning, organization, and execution of the association’s annual PPAI Expo and 4-5 membership Events throughout the year. This position requires strong attention to detail, organizational abilities, and proactive problem-solving skills to ensure seamless event execution.

Travel Requirements:

This role requires travel to support key events, including:

January: The PPAI Expo

May: North American Leadership Conference (NALC)

June: Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC)

September: Responsibility Summit

October: Leadership Development Conference (LDC)

Site Visits: Throughout, As Needed

Key Responsibilities:

• Event Logistics (25%): Manage meeting details, including food and beverage selections, audiovisual requirements, timelines, room diagrams, and onsite execution. Review BEOs, MEOs, and function orders with venues / vendors to ensure accuracy.
• The PPAI Expo Logistics (25%): Oversee meeting space assignment and allocation, ancillary space requests, and internal & external food and beverage orders. Coordinate billing, audiovisual needs, timelines, and room setups while working collaboratively to ensure seamless execution.
• Event Onsite Support (15%): Oversee setup and breakdown of events, ensuring all logistical components- such as AV, food and beverage, room sets, and venue logistics- are executed as planned.
• Expo Onsite Support (15%): Oversee onsite logistics, ensuring seamless execution across key meeting spaces, including but not limited to General Session, Breakout Rooms, Show Floor food and beverage activations, and internal functions. Maintain visibility throughout external meeting spaces, proactively addressing logistical challenges. Manage and guide 1-2 temporary meeting planners, ensuring all onsite coordination follows established plans.
• Budget and Invoicing (5%): Assist in budget development and expense tracking, ensuring all costs are property reconciled and aligned with financial objectives.
• Milestone & Timeline Management (5%): Maintain and track critical deadlines to ensure all key event milestones are met.
• Other Duties as Directed (5%): Participate in miscellaneous projects and assignments that support the Expositions & Events team.

Experience Requirements:

• 2+ years of experience in event management.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Exceptional Organizational & Time Management: Ability to multitask, prioritize effectively, and meet tight deadlines.
• Attention to Detail & Adaptability: High attention to detail, problem-solving, and flexibility to handling onsite changes.
• Effective Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving: Skilled in negotiation skill and strategic thinking to tackle challenges and resolve conflict efficiently.
• Microsoft Office Suite Proficiency: Expertise in Outlook, Word, Teams, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Financial Management: Ability to budget, track expenses, and ensure cost-effective event execution.
• Professional Customer Service: Maintain professionalism, communicate effectively in high-pressure situations

Specific Qualifications:

• Independent and Proactive Work Style: Able to manage tasks efficiently, complete projects, and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Clear & Effective Communication: Comfortable working with both internal teams and external partners to ensure smooth coordination.
• Team-Oriented & Composed Under Pressure: Works well in a collaborative environment and remains steady in fast-paced situation.
• Flexible & Adaptable Approach: Maintains a positive attitude and adjusts effectively to changing needs.

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status:

• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Compensation: Salary
• Job Status: Full-Time
• Daily Schedule: Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity:

• Manual Labor & Heavy Lifting: Involves lifting, carrying, and positioning event equipment and materials
• Frequent Walking & Active Movement: Extensive on-foot travel throughout event spaces to oversee setup and logistics
• Dynamic Physical Tasks: Requires pushing, pulling, bending, and stooping to assist with setup and adjustments.
• Prolonged Standing & Sitting: Alternates between stationary and active roles depending on event needs.
• Endurance & Stamina: Long work hours, extended workweeks, and high-energy demands, especially during peak event periods.

Work Environment:

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel, work weekends, and long hours as event scheduling may require.

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Manager, Speaker & External Programs

Department: Professional Development

Reports to: Senior Manager, Professional Development Strategy

Location: Irving, TX

Job Type: Full-Time

About PPAI: Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) serves as the voice and standard-bearer for the promotional products industry. We are passionate about education that drives industry professionalism, leadership, and innovation.

Position Overview: The Manager, Speaker & External Programs is responsible for sourcing and managing high-impact speakers, keynote talent, and externally developed education. This role ensures speaker excellence, brand alignment, and the seamless integration of collaborative education developed with partners and sponsors.

Key Responsibilities:

Speaker & Partner Management (50%)

• Source, vet, and contract keynote speakers, panelists, and adjunct educators
• Lead prep calls and provide coaching to ensure speaker readiness and alignment with learning goals
• Manage long-term relationships with external contributors and speaker bureaus
• Serve as primary point of contact for all keynote experiences, ensuring they align with event strategy and audience expectations
• Oversee end-to-end speaker experience including run-of-show, AV coordination, and on-site speaker management

Content Customization & Quality Assurance (30%)

• Edit and adapt externally developed or sponsored content to meet PPAI’s educational and visual standards
• Ensure content remains educational and non-promotional, aligned with event and learner needs
• Provide feedback and direction to speakers for consistent quality across sessions

Collaborative Program Development (20%)

• Evaluate and onboard educational partners (e.g., AMA, SHRM, FLA) for co-branded learning initiatives
• Lead integration of partner and supplier-led content into major events such as Expo and WLC
• Develop strategy for external content collaborations that add value for PPAI members

Qualifications:

• 5+ years in speaker management, conference programming, or educational partnerships.
• Strong communication and coaching skills with experience prepping executive-level speakers.
• Familiarity with speaker bureaus, content licensing, and contract negotiation.
• Demonstrated experience curating keynote-level sessions at major conferences or events
• Proven ability to manage the full speaker lifecycle, from invitation to on-site logistics, across events from 200-1000 attendees
• Experience working with external education partners or associations.
• Highly organized with the ability to juggle multiple deadlines and deliverables.
• Background in event or association education preferred.
• This position does require traveling to a minimum of 5 conferences a year

Job Status

• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Compensation: Salary
• Job Status: Full-Time
• Daily Schedule: Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Job Title: Senior Manager of Creative Services

Location: Irving, TX

Reports To: Director of Marketing

Job Summary

The Senior Manager of Creative Services is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the PPAI brand, ensuring a cohesive and compelling expression of the organization’s identity through both visual elements and voice. Reporting to the Director of Marketing, this role establishes brand strategy that aligns PPAI’s vision, mission, and core values with creative outputs that resonate across diverse stakeholders.

This individual is responsible for connecting visual identity and voice, ensuring consistency and cohesion across all business units, digital platforms, print publications, events, advocacy efforts, and external communications. The Senior Manager of Creative Services will develop creative strategies that effectively communicate PPAI’s message to promo industry professionals, the Board, staff, policy makers, brands, peer associations, end users, and other key audiences.

As an advocate for the brand and industry, this role ensures that PPAI’s creative expression supports the organization’s strategic objectives and enhances its reputation as a leader within the promotional products industry.

Key Responsibilities

Brand Strategy & Creative Development (40%)

• Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing monitoring and management of PPAI’s comprehensive brand strategy, connecting visual identity and voice to convey the organization’s vision, mission, and core values.
• Serve as internal and external ambassador and advocate for the PPAI brand through storytelling, design, and creative execution that reflects PPAI’s leadership and mission.
• Establish and maintain a cohesive brand identity that integrates visual expression and messaging across all creative outputs.
• Ensure brand consistency across digital platforms, printed materials, publications, events, advocacy efforts, and internal and external communications.
• Develop creative strategies that effectively appeal to and resonate with diverse stakeholders, including promo industry professionals, the Board, staff, policy makers, brands, peer associations, and end users.
• Collaborate with the Director of Marketing to align brand strategy with broader organizational objectives and ensure consistency in messaging and creative expression.
• Provide creative strategy and campaign development alongside the Creative Team. Pitch campaigns to stakeholders, working within workflow process, to make adjustments and execute.

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Alignment (20%)

• Partner with the Marketing Team, Project Management Lead, and other department directors to ensure consistency in creative workflow, structure, and execution.
• Maintain open communication with internal stakeholders to ensure creative strategies align with broader marketing, media, and advocacy efforts.
• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and alignment across departments.
• Provide creative guidance and feedback to team members, promoting quality and consistency in all creative outputs.

Creative Strategy & Execution for Publications (20%)

• Develop and execute creative strategies for PPAI publications, including digital and printed materials, ensuring alignment with brand standards and organizational objectives.
• Collaborate with the Director of Media & Research to create cohesive visuals and messaging that resonate across all publication channels.
• Oversee the design, layout, and branding of publications to ensure consistency in storytelling, quality, and impact.
• Ensure that creative assets for publications reflect PPAI’s voice, tone, and visual identity.

Creative Team Leadership (10%)

• Lead, mentor, and manage the Creative Services Team, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes creativity, innovation, and accountability.
• Establish clear performance expectations, provide constructive feedback, and support professional growth and development within the creative team.
• Ensure creative team members are aligned with PPAI’s brand standards, objectives, and core values in all creative outputs.

Vendor & Agency Management (10%)

• Alongside Director of Marketing, serve as liaison with external agencies and vendors to ensure adherence to PPAI’s brand guidelines and creative standards.
• Oversee agency creative relationships to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with established brand objectives.
• Provide clear direction and feedback to vendors to ensure quality, consistency, and adherence to creative expectations.

Experience Requirements

• 7+ years of creative leadership experience within a team environment
• Past experience working at an advertising/marketing agency, membership-based association or nonprofit organization work a plus.
• Proven ability to develop and execute creative strategies that enhance brand reputation and drive consistency across various media.
• Extensive experience in graphic design, multimedia production, storytelling, and creative content development.
• Strong expertise in branding, visual design principles, messaging, and creative direction.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across departments and manage multiple creative projects simultaneously.
• Previous knowledge and creative leadership experience within printed and digital publications.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strategic mindset with the ability to develop and execute comprehensive creative strategies.
• Ability to integrate visual identity and voice to create a cohesive and impactful brand experience.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, fostering collaboration across departments.
• High adaptability, with the ability to lead through change and drive innovative, creative solutions.
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills.
• Aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving.

Preferred Qualifications

• Past experience designing publications, both print and digital.
• Advanced degree in graphic design, marketing, creative direction, or related field.
• Certifications in branding, creative leadership, or digital design.

Job Status

• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Compensation: Salary
• Job Status: Full-Time
• Daily Schedule: Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel (approximately 10%)

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

IT Director

Location: Irving, TX

Reports to: CEO

Job Summary:

The IT Director will oversee the technology strategy and operations for PPAI, with key responsibilities around the organization’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). This role is responsible for ensuring the effective and efficient use of technology to support the PPAI’s goals and objectives. The IT Director will lead a team of IT professionals, manage the IT budget, and collaborate with other departments to implement technology solutions that enhance business performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Technology strategy lead (30%): Develop, implement, monitor, and continue to enhance the organizational IT strategy for PPAI aligned with the associated goals and objectives and all PPAI stakeholders. Ensure overall solutions are scoped with PPAI mission and vision in-mind and implemented in a budget-conscious way.
• Technology infrastructure and ERP (30%): Oversee the management of the organization’s IT infrastructure, including networks, hardware, software, and security. Lead design, development and implementation of the organization’s ERP, ensuring a seamless integration of enterprise systems that creates strong internal processes and procedures, as well as those for external stakeholders. This will include connectivity of technology systems covering financial, CRM, marketing, events, membership, LMS, sales, PMO, business intel, and more.
• Web systems/architecture lead (10%): Provide leadership and guidance for PPAI web properties, managing an internal team responsible for web architecture, SEO, and user experience. Oversee the design, development, and maintenance of scalable and secure web systems, develop and implement SEO strategies, enhance user experience, and collaborate with other departments to align web initiatives with business objectives.
• Department lead (10%): Lead and mentor the IT team, providing guidance and support for professional development. Manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources.
• Accountable thought leader (10%): Collaborate with PPAI Executive Leadership Team and department leads to identify and implement technology solutions that improve business processes and performance. Provide consistent leadership report-outs on performance and project updates. Serve as proactive solutions seeker and open communicator with PPAI leadership. Stay current with emerging technologies and trends, assess their potential impact on the company, and advocate for digital transformation within the industry. Ensure industry standards and regulations compliance.
• Partnership lead (10%): Develop and maintain relationships with external vendors, technology partners, and service providers. Source partnerships and work through internal channels to procure advantageous vendor relationships that are budget-friendly, yet highly effective for PPAI goals and objectives.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in IT, with at least 5 years in a management role.
• Successful background designing, managing, and implementing complex ERP solutions.
• Proven ability to understand business needs and apply appropriate technology effectively.
• Experience with AI-enabled platforms and business intelligence systems.
• Hands-on leadership experience, leading and contributing directly to projects.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Self-starter with a high level of initiative and attention to detail.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, networks, hardware, software, and security.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations.

Specific Qualifications:

• Experience with digital transformation initiatives and leading significant internal change of systems and approaches to leveraging technology.
• Ability to understand existing systems and lead the implementation of streamlined systems.
• Experience in mapping business processes and overseeing web strategy and product development efforts.
• Proven track record of working closely with leadership teams to identify, prioritize, and execute plans.
• Experience in managing IT projects within the marketing industry or similar industries.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with a nonprofit, association experience a nice-to-have.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, ITIL, CISSP).

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Salary
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full-Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Job Title:  Director of Marketing

Location: Irving, TX

Reports To: Chief Marketing Officer

Job Summary

The Director of Marketing is responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies that enhance PPAI’s brand reputation, drive member engagement, and promote the promotional products industry within the global marketing community. Reporting directly to the Chief Marketing Officer, this role collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality marketing campaigns, content, and initiatives that support PPAI’s strategic objectives.

This role also oversees the Creative Services Team, ensuring cohesive brand strategy and consistency across all channels, enterprise initiatives, and external partnerships. The Director of Marketing will set strategic priorities that drive messaging consistency and creativity while ensuring alignment across marketing functions.

The Director of Marketing oversees the planning, execution, and performance analysis of integrated marketing initiatives across various channels, including digital platforms, social media, events, email marketing, and advertising. This role ensures alignment between marketing objectives and broader organizational goals, supporting PPAI’s mission to advance the promotional products industry through innovative, data-driven marketing efforts.

Key Responsibilities

Marketing Strategy & Planning (35%)

• Oversee and provide strategic direction to Marketing Managers, the Digital Marketing Manager, and the Senior Manager of Creative Services to ensure marketing initiatives are consistent, cohesive, and aligned with PPAI’s objectives.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies that enhance PPAI’s brand visibility, engagement, and credibility.
• Collaborate with the Senior Vice President of Marketing & Media to establish marketing goals, performance metrics, and strategic initiatives.
• Plan and oversee the execution of integrated marketing campaigns across digital platforms, events, publications, social media, email, and advertising.
• Ensure consistency in messaging and creative outputs, maintaining alignment with PPAI’s brand standards.
• Monitor marketing trends, member feedback, and competitive landscape to refine strategies and optimize results.

Campaign Management & Execution (30%)

• Lead the development and delivery of high-impact marketing campaigns that resonate with target audiences and drive measurable results.
• Collaborate with the Creative Services team to produce engaging content, ensuring cohesion across all platforms.
• Oversee the management of digital marketing efforts, including SEO, social media, email marketing, paid advertising, and content marketing.
• Implement data-driven approaches to track campaign performance and enhance marketing effectiveness.
• Ensure campaigns are aligned with research findings, advocacy priorities, and organizational objectives.

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Alignment (20%)

• Work closely with the Director of Media & Research to ensure integrated marketing and media strategies align with PPAI’s advocacy efforts.
• Partner with the Digital Marketing Manager to drive cohesive digital marketing efforts that align with broader marketing objectives.
• Collaborate with the Senior Manager of Creative Services to produce engaging content and creative assets that enhance engagement and credibility.
• Provide strategic oversight to Marketing Managers in developing campaigns that align with member engagement, events, and advocacy initiatives.
• Foster a collaborative environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and cross-functional synergy.

Reporting & Analysis (10%)

• Develop and maintain marketing dashboards, reports, and KPIs to measure the effectiveness of campaigns and initiatives.
• Provide insights and recommendations to the Senior Vice President of Marketing & Media based on performance analysis and industry trends.
• Continuously refine marketing strategies and tactics based on data, research insights, and evolving member needs.

Budget Management (5%)

• Assist in developing and managing the marketing budget, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently to achieve strategic objectives.
• Monitor budget performance, making adjustments as needed to optimize impact and ROI.

Experience Requirements

• 7+ years of marketing leadership experience.
• Proven ability to develop and execute integrated marketing strategies that enhance visibility, engagement, and credibility.
• Extensive experience in digital marketing, creative services, content development, and campaign management.
• Strong expertise in analytics, SEO, social media, paid advertising, and strategic communication.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategies that resonate with diverse audiences and drive tangible results. Experience working with agile-based workflow management platforms (Workfront, Asana, etc.).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strategic mindset with the ability to develop and execute comprehensive marketing plans.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, fostering collaboration across departments.
• High adaptability, with the ability to lead through change and drive innovative solutions.
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills.
• Aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advertising/marketing agency experience a plus.
• Experience working with a non-profit and/or association.
• MBA, relevant advanced degree, or equivalent previous experience.
• Certifications in marketing, digital strategy, or leadership development.

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status

• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Compensation: Salary
• Job Status: Full-Time
• Daily Schedule: Flexible
• Work Location: Hybrid Remote Work Model (preferred to work from HQ location)

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature-controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel (approximately 30%)

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location: Irving, TX

Reports To: President & CEO

Job Summary

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of PPAI, ensuring efficiency, financial stability, and a culture of excellence while overseeing the organization’s ongoing operations and procedures. This executive leadership role requires a strategic and results-driven leader who will be focused on enhancing and optimizing PPAI’s digital footprint, driving and maintaining the organization’s short- and long-term financial stability, creating overall operational efficiencies, and fostering a culture of joy. The COO will work closely with the CEO and executive leadership team to execute strategic initiatives that align with PPAI’s vision, mission, values, and strategic plan and general vision shared by the Board of Directors and CEO.

This role requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in financial management, digital transformation, and organizational development, ensuring that PPAI’s teams are empowered, well-trained, and equipped to exceed performance goals.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Team Development (10%)

• Develop, mentor, and oversee leaders in Finance, Technology, and Human Resources, ensuring teams are continuously improving and aligned with PPAI’s mission.
• Define clear goals and performance metrics for each department, ensuring accountability and progress tracking.
• Create and lead leadership development initiatives, ensuring that department heads are equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive their teams effectively.
• Foster a high-performance culture, ensuring that teams remain engaged, innovative, and proactive in problem-solving.
• Present to and communicate with the PPAI Board of Directors, while serving as the liaison with the Finance Committee and Vice Chair of Finance.

Technology & Digital Transformation (30%)

• Collaborate with the IT Director to set the strategic vision for PPAI’s technology infrastructure, ensuring digital tools and systems align with long-term organizational goals.
• Oversee the 2025 ERP and LMS implementation, ensuring that teams manage integration and adoption, then serve as leader for ongoing optimization to continue improved efficiencies and enhanced experience for members and internal and partner stakeholders.
• Ensure technology teams are focused on innovation, data-driven decision-making, and security, keeping PPAI at the forefront of industry best practices.
• Lead team in procurement, implementation, and leadership adoption of an enterprise-wide business intelligence tool that will create a stronger reliance on data to inform strategic and tactical actions.
• Champion digital transformation initiatives, guiding the Technology team in executing seamless system improvements while driving organization-wide adoption.

Financial Strategy & Organizational Stability (30%)

• Provide financial oversight and strategic direction to ensure long-term fiscal health and operational sustainability.
• Guide the Finance team in developing and executing budget strategies that optimize resources and support PPAI’s strategic goals.
• Oversee the development of financial forecasting models, reviewed consistently with internal and Board stakeholders, that enhance decision-making and ensure proactive financial planning.
• Collaborate with the Director of Finance and accounting team to implement cost-saving initiatives, revenue diversification strategies, and financial risk mitigation measures.
• Ensure that financial leadership is empowered to make data-driven decisions that drive efficiency and maximize impact.

Human Resources & Organizational Growth (15%)

• Set the vision for talent development and workforce planning, ensuring that HR strategies support PPAI’s growth and member needs.
• Oversee organizational culture initiatives that enhance employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
• Ensure HR leaders are driving best-in-class recruitment, onboarding, and training processes to attract, retain, and develop top-tier talent.
• Partner with HR Director and team to implement performance management systems that encourage continuous improvement and accountability.
• Establish succession planning initiatives that prepare the next generation of leaders within PPAI.

Operational Efficiency & Cross-Functional Collaboration (15%)

• Lead organizational efficiency initiatives, ensuring that all departments operate cohesively and effectively.
• Oversee efforts led by Manager of Project Management in procurement, implementation and enterprise-wide adoption of workflow optimization platform.
• Guide teams to rely upon formalized standard operating procedures and processes that enhance collaboration and reduce silos.
• Develop and maintain a performance dashboard, working with department heads to establish KPIs that track operational and financial health.
• Ensure seamless communication and alignment across teams, fostering a collaborative, member-focused work environment.

Experience Requirements

• 10+ years of executive leadership experience, with strong experience in finance, technology, human resources and operational strategy and a track record of success.
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams, fostering leadership growth across departments.
• Extensive experience in financial planning, technology transformation, and operational process improvement.
• Deep understanding of digital transformation and how to implement enterprise-wide systems (ERP, CRM, LMS, BI, PMO tools) successfully.
• Strong expertise in strategic planning, performance measurement, and organizational development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Visionary leadership, capable of defining and executing long-term strategies.
• Ability to mentor and develop senior leaders, ensuring teams operate at peak effectiveness.
• Exceptional financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and revenue optimization.
• Strong understanding of enterprise technology, cybersecurity, and system integration best practices.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, fostering cross-functional collaboration.
• High adaptability, able to lead through change and drive transformation initiatives.
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills.
• Aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving.

Preferred Qualifications

• Corporate experience required and that within a member-based association or nonprofit organization, preferred.
• MBA, relevant advanced degree or equivalent previous experience.
• Certifications in finance, technology and/or leadership development (e.g., CPA, PMP, Six Sigma).

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Salary
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full-Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel (approximately 30%)

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org