NationalPen250Distributor National Pen Company (UPIC: NATI0006) today announced the planned ascension of Peter Kelly to CEO, effective immediately. Former CEO Dave Thompson retains the role of board chairman. The news was first announced this morning in a PPB Newslink Breaking News alert.

“Peter is the right man at the right time to take the reins of this great company,” says Thompson. “His global operational and marketing experience combined with a deep commitment to our culture of service will drive our continued double-digit annual growth rate. I could not have picked a better successor.”

Since 2009, Kelly has served as senior vice president and managing director of National Pen Company’s European operations, where he has tripled revenues and quadrupled profits. He holds nearly two decades of executive-level experience in sales, supply chain, sourcing, operations and manufacturing. Prior to joining National Pen Company, he served in senior leadership capacities for Ulster Weavers Apparel Ltd., Lamont Holdings Plc, Ulster Carpet Mills, Ltd and other organizations.

Thompson steps down with an impressive track record as National Pen Company’s CEO. The company has organically grown from $165 million in 2009 to $300 million in 2016. National Pen now serves more than 1.5 million small businesses in 28 countries.

“Dave has been remarkable at the helm of National Pen Company, having nearly doubled revenues globally for the company with impressive profit margins over the past seven years,” says Kelly. “This is a testament to the unique offerings and personalized care we’re able to provide small to mid-sized businesses around the world—feats unmatched in our industry. I sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence that he, National Pen Company’s board of directors and our amazing worldwide team of dedicated employees have placed upon me. I look forward to what we’ll accomplish together.”

Kelly will be based in National Pen Company’s San Diego, California, headquarters.