(Editor’s Note: PromoWire by PPAI Media is a running digest of news releases and updates submitted from organizations around the industry. PPAI Media edits these only slightly, including for length, and will consider newsworthy entries from any member organization.)

July 27, 2022

Competitive Edge Announces Two Exciting Changes to Leadership Team

Competitive Edge is thrilled to announce the promotion of Lisa DeJong, MAS, to Executive Vice President of Sales. As the Executive Vice President of Sales for Competitive Edge, Lisa utilizes 25 years of sales experience in branded merchandise and 15 years of leadership experience within the company to provide a high level of consistency and competency that garners trust and generates growth. Always on the lookout for the latest and greatest, she enjoys discovering new products and trends to share with her clients and credits her longevity to the excitement of an ever-changing industry. Known as a "big picture" thinker, Lisa is able to cast a vision that keeps the company on the cutting edge of industry innovation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Communications from Central College in Pella, Iowa, and is a certified Master Advertising Specialist (MAS).

Competitive Edge is also thrilled to welcome Dawn (Ruler) Janis, MAS, to the ranks as their new Market Vice President serving the greater Grand Rapids area. Dawn, a proven leader in the field of promotional products, earned her Bachelor's Degree in Marketing from Illinois State University, and resided in Illinois before her recent marriage and relocation to the great state of Michigan. Dawn brings 22 years of industry sales and management experience to her new role. She is a valued contributor to industry-related trade associations, serving as President of PPAChicago and a member of the MiPPA Leadership Conference Committee. As a certified Master Advertising Specialist (MAS), Dawn demonstrates an exemplary commitment to the promotional products profession and has received a Gold Pyramid Award for her accomplishments in this field. Her deep roots within the industry will serve to strengthen the company's commitment to the Grand Rapids and West Michigan markets.

Competitive Edge's CEO, Mary Jo Tomasini, is excited about the depth of experience and fresh perspective both executives bring to the leadership team. Tomasini says, "This move is just the next step in executing our plan for growth, as Lisa and Dawn will be instrumental in expanding our footprint and growing our capacity to serve more customers."

BEL Promo Promotes Three

Supplier BEL Promo, located in Medley, FL promotes 3 inside employees to key roles to continue their goal in providing the industry’s best customer experience.

Maria Ramos, a 10+ year industry veteran, has been promoted from customer service representative to Account Manager. She will be the key contact for accounts in two of BEL Promo Multi-Line Rep Groups
territories, Brooks & Brooks and Joe Eberz & Associates.

Bryan Martinez, currently Customer Service Team lead, is promoted to Customer Service Supervisor. Bryan will continue to guide the customer service team to provide an unforgettable customer experience.

Elizabeth Amores has been promoted from Accounting Supervisor to Accounts Receivables Manager. Elizabeth has been a crucial part in keeping BEL Promo operating in the right direction.

“These promotions have been long overdue, says Susan Lewandowski, GM of Bel Promo. Maria, Bryan and Eli have been instrumental in our unprecedented growth throughout these past few difficult years. They will take the next step in providing high level service and care to both internal and external customers.”