#36 Heather Smartt & Kenny Ved

Goldstar (asi/73295)

2023 Rank: #47

Heather Smartt – Global Head

Industry Experience: 18 Years

Previous Appearances on Power 50: 0

Kenny Ved – Director of Global Sales

Industry Experience: 25 Years

Previous Appearances on Power 50: 1

Heather Smartt debuts on the Counselor Power 50 this year after being named global head of Counselor Top 40 supplier Goldstar (asi/73295). She joins Kenny Ved, himself a relative newcomer to the Counselor Power 50 after making his first appearance last year.

Together, the two are the faces of an exciting new era for the global supplier. Goldstar reached the Counselor Top 40 for the first time last year, and has grown its revenue by 132% since 2020 by deftly expanding beyond writing instruments into other product categories and leaning on a marketing motto of “Simplicity” that’s resonating in the marketplace.

Ved is a long-time company veteran of over two decades who ascended to the role of director of global sales in 2021. Smartt, on the other hand, is a relative newcomer to the company, arriving at the supplier in 2023 as global director of merchandising after many years with Polyconcept and a brief stint with National Pen (asi/281040), a distributor that like Goldstar is owned by Dundalk, Ireland-based Cimpress (asi/162149). A sourcing wiz as well as a shrewd discerner of market movements and category trends, the worldly Smartt (an American expat who currently resides in Lisbon, Portugal) has made a mark in her short time with the company.

“I’m privileged to lead a team that consistently strives for excellence,” says Smartt. “Together, we’ve navigated challenges and made substantial strides in enhancing our customer experience. By revisiting our processing procedures, we’ve ensured that our clients receive the exceptional service they deserve. Our journey hasn’t been without its obstacles, but the team’s resilience and dedication have propelled us forward.”

Smartt and Ved point to numerous achievements for 2024. Goldstar expanded its presence worldwide and brought consistency to customer support and product decoration globally. It’s promoting a people-first ethos through its internal “GROW” program (Goals, Results, Opportunities, and Workplan). And Smartt and Ved have the company diving deep into sustainability with a strengthened ESG plan, the establishment of a dedicated Green team and the implementation of life cycle testing and digital passports.

“Today we stand at a pivotal moment, energized by our accomplishments and driven by our vision,” says Smartt. “Our recognition through awards and our commitment to developing ESG-aligned products are testaments to our team’s dedication, innovation and passion for making a positive impact. As we look ahead, I’m excited to continue leading our team toward a prosperous future.”