GPA Elevates President Bob Niesen to CEO; Tom Brooker Becomes Board Chairman

CHICAGO—January 13, 2015—GPA today announced that the company’s board of directors has promoted Bob Niesen to the position of CEO effective January 6, 2015. Niesen currently serves as GPA’s president, responsible for leading the company’s U.S.-based operations. Tom Brooker, formerly the CEO, has taken on the exclusive responsibility of chairman of the board of GPA. Tom joined GPA in 2010 and has helped guide the organization through a period of significant growth.

"The GPA board of directors would like to thank Tom Brooker for his leadership over the last four years as CEO," said John Svoboda, presiding chairman. "Tom's personal integrity, vision and keen focus on value creation helped elevate GPA to their market leading position, and his many contributions will positively impact the company for years to come."

As GPA’s president and CEO, Niesen will drive the company’s strategy and vision for long-term growth and profitability through the continuing development of their innovative product portfolio, along with superior technical support and service programs. The entire leadership team at GPA is excited to be working under Bob’s guidance to develop new business opportunities, foster brand loyalty and strengthen existing relationships with customers and industry partners.

"I have great confidence in Bob and his ability to lead our company. He has proven his readiness through our planned succession process and will be supported by our deep and experienced management team," noted Brooker. "Under Bob's leadership, I am confident that GPA’s best days are ahead."

Niesen commented on his new position, "I am honored to be given the opportunity to lead this great company, and eager to drive GPA through the next phase of our journey. It's an exciting time for our team. Our business is strong, and we have a clear vision of what it’s going to take to continue to provide differentiated service to our customers and drive significant growth over the coming years."

About GPA, Specialty Substrate Solutions
GPA is the premier source for specialty substrates and solutions for offset, digital printing, and wide format inkjet printing. Products include coated and uncoated papers, pressure sensitive and specialty papers, synthetic films and substrates exclusively engineered for HP Indigo and other digital presses. GPA is an HP Indigo Preferred Partner and a Diamond Partner of Dscoop (Digital Solutions Cooperative).

Source: GPA.