Coolest French Fashion Influence On Promo Francis Pierrel, CEO of LR Paris, did more than bring a fashion sense to the promo industry – although he definitely did that, having held leadership roles at apparel brands like Ralph Lauren (including working directly with its iconic namesake), Lacoste, Diesel and Urban Outfitters. In his most recent role, he’s also focused on bringing retail experience and a retail mindset to the promo world. Coolest Expat Heather Smartt, global head of Goldstar, was bi-coastal before she even entered the promotional products industry. Having attended Penn State University as an undergraduate, she earned her MBA on the West Coast at the University of Southern California. Lately, though, she’s been a global presence. Residing in Lisbon, Portugal, Smartt runs Goldstar, a company that has recently emphasized having a presence in multiple continents. That starts with its leader, who has said that even just living in Europe has engrained in her a more sustainable mindset for the company. Coolest Global Brand Ambassadors Roderick Brown and Colin Loughran are a duo on this list because they are doing similarly exciting work. Both are industry veterans who have pivoted to something like global consultancy, connecting people and promo businesses across the world. Brown, an American, and Loughran, an Irishman, help bring promo trade throughout the U.S., Europe, India and China. “This exposure to diverse cultures, geographies, foods and business practices fosters understanding and creates opportunities, despite the occasional challenges of globalization,” Brown says. And if that’s not cool enough, in May, Brown is taking Loughran on a “four corners” motorcycle tour of the U.S., and in June, Loughran is returning the favor with an 11-day adventure around Ireland. Coolest Compliance Expert Ready To Take A Stroll With Your Legislator Promo connects with the outside world through more than just clients and end users. Safety regulations and government affairs are both ever-changing landscapes that can have huge effects on this industry. Some people must be on the front lines. Among those people is Sanjay Kotia, manager of product compliance and quality assurance at SnugZ USA. PPAI’s Product Responsibility Action Group? He’s ready to volunteer. PPAI’s Responsibility Summit? He was on the council selecting content. The Association’s Government Relations Action Council? You guessed it. Kotia is there. As if his full-time job at SnugZ wasn’t time-consuming enough, you can bet he’s been recently advocating and educating on behalf of you and the rest of the promo industry. Roderick Brown Colin Loughran Sanjay Kotia can often be found advocating and educating on behalf of you and the rest of the promo industry. PPAI • MAY 2025 • 47 The Coolest Stuff in Promo | Must Read
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