Suvak named chairman of JPMA

Mount Laurel N.J.— The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Assn. has elected new officers to lead the board of directors for 2005–06.

Bill Suvak of Child Craft was elected chairman, taking over for Bengt Lager of Regal + Lager. Andy Keimach of Munchkin is the new vice chairman, and Kelly Mariotti of Green Frog Art will serve as treasurer. All three will hold their offices for a year.

Other new additions to the board are Greg Masker of Chicco, Jeff Hutsell of Levels of Discovery, Tom Sparno of Evenflo Co., Greg Schuman of Baby Talk magazine and Michael Halak of Graco. The group joins standing directors Mary Jean Bush of Blue Ridge International Products, Tony Desimone of Fisher-Price, Freddi Finegood of BananaFish and Doug Oaks of Britax. Board members serve three-year terms.

"JPMA is fortunate to have such dedicated people working to further the goals of the organization and the industry," Suvak said. "I am anxious to see what opportunities the coming year brings."

In an open letter to JPMA members, Suvak highlighted four three-year strategic initiatives that the board developed over the past year to help guide it moving forward. They include:

• Make the international JPMA show a must-attend event for all U.S. and international juvenile product manufacturers and retailers. Suvak said he thought the JPMA show in May, held for the first time in Orlando, accomplished much toward this first initiative.
• As a member service, collect accurate industry statistics for consumers and retail purchases down to the individual product level and class of trade. The current plan, said Suvak, is to publish 2004 industry statistics this year.
• Maintain a positive public image for the members of JPMA via product safety advocacy with government and other consumer-influential organizations. Suvak highlighted the JPMA certification program, which has 17 product categories with four more under development. JPMA has also been working with consumer publications to spread the word on the program. The goal, said Suvak, is to have consumers ask retailers for certified products.
• Establish/revise written policies and processes for management of the association that ensures continuity of effective board leadership, operational efficiency, expanded revenue base and membership satisfaction. The board and staff have agreed that it is necessary to develop a "Policy and Procedures" manual to guide the association moving forward, said Suvak. "As an association we feel it is critical that we are an 'open book' to our members," he said.

Suvak also reminded members to stay involved in their association, either through committees or involvement in the safety standard development process.

"I'm sure that this year will have its challenges as they all seem to, but we have shown that we are very capable of facing challenges head-on," said Suvak in the letter. "I look forward to this opportunity to serve as JPMA chairman for the next year. Your support is greatly appreciated, and comments and constructive criticism are always welcome."

Bill Suvak