Kellen News
For Immediate Release:
Cara Clinton
Kellen Communications
212-297-2109
cclinton@kellencompany.com
KELLEN COMPANY NAMES THREE NEW GROUP VICE PRESIDENTS, FORMS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Pam Chumley, Russ Lemieux and Ralph Vasami promoted
Atlanta (May 17, 2006) — Kellen Company, the a global professional services firm, and the premier international association management company (AMC), has promoted three executives from vice president to group vice president. Pam Chumley, Russ Lemieux and Ralph Vasami have been promoted based on their proven commitment to Kellen Company’s vision, mission and values.
"Pam, Russ and Ralph are all vital members of the continued expansion and success of the Kellen Company," said Peter Rush, president and chief executive officer of Kellen. "These promotions recognize the impact that their work has had on the growth of our company."
Chumley has more than 20 years of experience in the food industry and over 12 years in association management. She serves as a senior executive for several of Kellen’s association clients, including the Association for Dressings and Sauces, the Vinegar Institute and the International Flight Services Association. Prior to joining Kellen in 1992, Chumley managed the Quality Assurance Department of Harris Teeter Supermarkets and was responsible for the private label program, food safety training and compliance with various regulatory agencies. She has held positions with Frito-Lay, Inc. and General Nutrition Corporation.
Chumley earned a bachelor’s of science degree in food science from Clemson University and has completed work toward a master’s degree in food science. She is a member of a number of professional societies including the Institute of Food Technologists.
Russell Lemieux joined Kellen in 1982 and has more than 22 years of experience in the association management industry. Currently, he serves as executive director of the Association of Fundraising Distributors & Suppliers and the National Pecan Shellers Association, and as senior executive advisor to the Research Chefs Association. Previously, Lemieux served as a public relations specialist for Hill & Knowlton, Inc. and is skilled in issues management, membership communications, newsletter writing and editing, and speech writing. He holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Georgia and is a member of the Georgia Society of Association Executives.
Ralph Vasami, Esq. is the executive director of the Window Covering Manufactures Association and the PET Resin Association. He is actively involved with leading clients’ efforts to modify and enhance National Building Codes.
Before joining Kellen in 2004, Vasami was president of Fiberlux, an independent producer of compounds and extrusions for the construction market. While president, he negotiated the sale of the company from private owners to Ethyl Corporation (NYSE EY), then to Tedegar Corporation (NYSE TG). He has a broad background in engineering, business management, operations, finance, strategic planning and law.
Vasami received a bachelor’s of science degree from New York University and his law degree from Pace University. He is a member of the New York State Bar.
Along with the promotion of Chumley, Lemieux and Vasami, The Kellen Company announced the formation of an Executive Committee (EC). The EC will provide deeper management penetration into the workplace by directly supervising all of Kellen’s current operations including marketing, client relations, human resources and financials. The EC will report regularly to the Board of Directors.
"The new Executive Committee will facilitate the anticipated growth of Kellen," said Rush. "By streamlining management we will be able to better serve the diverse need of all our clients." In addition to Chumley, Lemieux and Vasami the EC will be comprised Mr. Rush, Chairman Bob Gelardi, Managing Partner Alfons Westgeest, Executive Vice President Rick Cristol and Chief Financial Officer Michael Brooks.
About Kellen Company: Founded in 1964, Kellen Company provides association management, government affairs, public relations, meetings management, creative communications, Web site development and other professional services to associations, as well as individual companies and other organizations. Kellen serves more than 10,000 companies and 100,000 professionals worldwide, either through its more than 100 client associations or directly, from offices in Atlanta, Washington, D.C., New York City, Tucson and Brussels. For more information, visit www.kellencompany.com