SanMar Names Two New Vice Presidents

SanMar Corp., Issaquah, WA, recently announced the promotion of Brian Thompson from director of distribution to vice president of distribution, as well as the promotion of Shelley Williams from creative director to vice president of marketing.

Thompson is a former U.S. Navy veteran who has worked at SanMar for more than 25 years. His tenure at SanMar includes various roles in the company spanning from the call center, to working on the inside sales team, to his most recent position as the senior director of distribution. He said he has stayed at SanMar because of the support he has always received from his co-workers and management.

“I knew after being here for two weeks that I wasn’t going anywhere,” Thompson said. “The employees at SanMar are amazing and the leadership is friendly and supportive. The opportunities to advance here have been incredible. There is truly a family atmosphere here.”

Williams joined SanMar in the summer of 2019 after having worked for more than 20 years in creative and marketing roles at companies like Alaska Airlines and Disney. At Alaska Airlines she led brand strategy and creative, including a comprehensive brand refresh. She also steered the creative strategy and design for a portfolio of websites for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

“I’m honored to be part of such an amazing, family-focused company with an incredible reputation and a heart for truly making a difference in our communities and our industry,” Williams said. “There’s an impressive foundation to build on and an abundance of great opportunities to make an impact.”

Williams’ promotion is in preparation for Vice President of Marketing Lee Strom’s retirement at the end of the month after 19 years at SanMar.