After nearly a quarter century in the promotional products industry, Philip Koosed is stepping down as chief strategy officer of Superior Group of Companies (SGC), the parent company of BAMKO (PPAI 242148, Platinum) – ranked the No. 4 distributor in the inaugural PPAI 100. 


His last day in his current role, which he transitioned to in 2021 after serving as president and CEO of Los Angeles-based BAMKO, is April 19.

“Phil, whose leadership and mentorship have left an indelible mark on all who have had the privilege to work alongside him, has decided to step away from his professional commitments to dedicate more time to his family and further his philanthropic endeavors,” says Jake Himelstein, president of BAMKO.

“His contributions have been pivotal in shaping SGC into the organization it is today. Phil hasn’t been involved in the day-to-day operations of BAMKO for the past three years, so while his departure has no direct impact on BAMKO's operations or direction, his legacy of leadership and compassion will continue to inspire us all.”

Koosed’s departure comes on the heels of Joshua White, former head of strategy and general counsel at BAMKO, taking a step back from the promo industry to pursue some long-standing entrepreneurial ambitions.

Philanthropic Efforts

In 2016, Koosed and his wife Tamar launched Save The Syrian Children from Sherman Oaks, California, in response to the Syrian civil war. Both come from Jewish heritage, with family who remembered the Holocaust and passed down a “never again” message.

The nonprofit’s mission is to deliver life-saving medical supplies for the children and innocent civilians bombarded by the Assad regime.


“His charisma, intelligence, focus and caring nature have not only made him a leader that people naturally gravitate towards, but also one of the most remarkable individuals I've had the honor of knowing and working with,” Himelstein says.