(Editor’s Note: Amid the ongoing voting for the new slate of nominees for the PPAI Board of Directors, PPAI Media is profiling the potential new additions. Be sure to also check out today’s introduction to PromoShop President Kate Alavez.)
Mark Gammon, CAS, refuses to rest on his laurels.
After nearly eight years at PPAI 100’s No. 25 distributor The Vernon Company, where he honed his skills in sales management, business development and client relationship-building, the industry veteran joined Cap America, the No. 18 supplier, as vice president of sales. He quickly climbed the company ladder, becoming president and COO of the Fredericktown, Missouri-based firm less than two years later.
Since taking over as CEO at the end of 2021, Gammon has helped Cap America significantly grow while overseeing the launch of a new product line and being a key contributor to the implementation of its sporting goods division.
His tireless work ethic should come as no surprise. After all, he graduated Summa Cum Laude from William Penn University and then pursued a disruptive strategy certificate from Harvard Business School, underlining his commitment to continuous learning and industry innovation.
Now, Gammon, named a PPAI Fellow in 2019, has been nominated to a seat on the PPAI Board of Directors.
The election to approve this year’s two-person board slate begins Aug. 26 and closes Aug. 30. Each PPAI member company’s voting contact is eligible to cast a vote for the slate. Voting will be done electronically, and a new 2024 username and password will be emailed to the voting contacts when voting opens. A candidate must receive majority approval among votes cast to be named to the board of directors following The PPAI Expo 2025.
In this interview with PPAI Media, Gammon explains why he wants to serve and what he brings to the table.
PPAI Media: Why do you want to be on the PPAI Board?
Mark Gammon: As the CEO of a leading industry supplier, I’m passionate about the role promotional products play in brand recognition and customer engagement. Joining the PPAI Board would allow me to contribute to advancing the industry, leveraging my expertise and insights to foster innovation, supporting member companies and upholding the standards that make promotional products an essential advertising medium.
PPAI Media: How would you describe your leadership style? What strengths would you bring to the PPAI Board?
Gammon: My leadership style is strategic and inclusive, focusing on empowering team members by fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and accountability. I believe in setting clear goals, providing resources and support and recognizing individual and team achievements. This approach would contribute to the PPAI Board by promoting a collaborative environment where diverse ideas are valued, and strategic initiatives are effectively implemented.
PPAI Media: Describe your process for creating a strategic plan or setting long term goals for yourself or your team.
Gammon: My strategic planning process involves comprehensive market analysis, stakeholder engagement and scenario planning. I start by defining clear, measurable objectives aligned with our overarching vision. Then, I involve key team members and stakeholders in brainstorming sessions to ensure diverse perspectives are considered. We use data-driven analysis to prioritize initiatives and develop actionable plans with timelines and responsibilities. Regular reviews and adjustments ensure our goals remain relevant and attainable.
PPAI Media: Can you share an experience where you supported a group decision despite having a differing opinion? How did you handle it?
Gammon: At Cap America, we recently faced delays in the launch of a new ERP system, despite strict deadlines I had set. Recognizing the critical importance of a successful implementation for both the company and our stakeholders, I deferred to the expertise of our CIO and other key company leaders. By supporting their strategic decisions and demonstrating trust in their specialized knowledge, I upheld my commitment to our collective objectives and the well-being of the team, ensuring that we moved forward cohesively and effectively.
PPAI Media: Describe a time when you had to incorporate or address diverse perspectives in a decision-making process. How did you ensure all voices were heard?
Gammon: While leading the rollout of a new product line at Cap America, I established a cross-functional team including members from product development, marketing, production and sales. This ensured that we integrated diverse insights and expertise from across the company. By valuing and incorporating wide-ranging perspectives, we were able to not only ensure our team members’ input and buy-in, but also preemptively address potential challenges, ultimately streamlining the product’s market introduction and enhancing its success.
PPAI Media: Is there anything else you’d like to say to the electorate that will be voting on the PPAI Board of Directors?
Gammon: Being nominated for the PPAI Board is an immense honor and a moment of pride in my career. This recognition reaffirms my commitment to our industry and its potential for growth and innovation. To the electorate, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for considering me for this role. Your support is invaluable, and I’m dedicated to working tirelessly to advocate for our collective goals and advancing initiatives that benefit all member companies.
Together, we can strengthen our industry, embrace new opportunities and overcome the challenges ahead.
