COLUMBUS, Ga. -- The International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR), based in Columbus, Ga., has named William S. Spann as its new CEO. Spann was introduced to the association at its 79th Annual Convention & International Trade Show held July 17-21 in Las Vegas. He replaces Joe Rowe, who has retired as executive director after 10 years.
"On behalf of the board of directors of the IPCPR, I want to extend a hearty welcome to Bill Spann who, we are confident, will help continue moving the association forward in behalf of its retail and manufacturing [image-nocss] members," said Gary Pesh, president of the IPCPR.
"At the same time, we wish Joe Rowe a long and happy retirement. He will be missed," he added.
Spann most recently served as chief of staff of the Florida Office of Financial Regulation. Before that, he was president and CEO of the Associated General Contractors of Greater Florida Inc. He also has served as part of Governor Jeb Bush's executive leadership team, first as communications director and then chief of staff at the Florida Department of Children & Families.
He earned the rank of commander during a 20 year-career with the U.S. Navy, with his final duty station as director of communications for the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, where he also taught "Ethics & Moral Decision Making for the Junior Officer."
With more than 2,000 members throughout the United States and 31 foreign countries, the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association is a leading nonprofit industry organization representing retailers, manufacturers and distributors of hand-made cigars, pipes and accessories. Stores displaying the IPCPR logo are recognized as premier purveyors of premium tobacco products. Members of IPCPR have access to IPCPR market research, trade shows, services, publications and participation in community, constitutional and legislative action programs.
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