Paul Bellantone, president and CEO of PPAI, will step down at the end of March 2021, the organization announced on Tuesday.

“It has been a pleasure to serve and I am tremendously appreciative of the opportunities I have been given and for the relationships I have built during my time with PPAI,” Bellantone said. “It is no secret that this has been a challenging year for many, both personally and professionally. But with such challenges come opportunities to evolve and thrive. That’s why I believe this is not only the right time for me, but the best time for PPAI.”

For more than 20 years, Bellantone has worked for PPAI, serving in his current role for the past nine years. Bellantone – a member of Counselor’s 2020 Power 50 – notified the Board of Directors in late October of his intention to conclude his tenure before his next contract extension, which was set to begin on April 1, 2021.

“It’s been my pleasure to spend time with Paul as we sought to help the promotional products industry, which we both love,” said Tim Andrews, ASI president and chief executive officer. “While in different organizations with sometimes different goals, we shared a mutual respect and camaraderie that I always looked forward to. This year, we spent many hours coordinating responses to how ASI and PPAI could support the industry, and presented jointly to many groups who wanted to hear our views on the way forward. I wish Paul the very best in this new chapter of his distinguished career.”