National Confectioners Association Names Lance Smith Executive Vice President of Customer & Industry Affairs

Confectionery industry veteran brings more than two decades of experience in sales leadership, strategic partnerships, and industry engagement

WASHINGTON - The National Confectioners Association (NCA) announced today that Lance Smith will join the organization as Executive Vice President of Customer & Industry Affairs, effective January 2027. Smith brings more than 22 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods, confectionery, and retail distribution industries, with a proven track record of building strategic relationships, leading high-performing teams, and driving business growth.

In his new role, Smith will work to strengthen NCA's relationships with retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and other key industry stakeholders, helping advance the association's efforts to support and advocate for the companies and people behind America's favorite treats. He will report directly to NCA President & CEO John Downs.

"Lance understands the opportunities and challenges facing our member companies and the broader retail landscape, and he brings a unique perspective shaped by decades of experience on both the manufacturing and distribution sides of the business," said John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association. "His leadership and industry relationships will be tremendous assets as we continue to strengthen the value NCA delivers to our member companies."

Smith most recently served as Executive Vice President of Sales & Industry Affairs at PIM Brands, where he has spent seven years across multiple roles leading sales efforts and strengthening partnerships across the confectionery industry. Prior to joining PIM Brands, he spent 15 years with McLane Company, building extensive experience in retail distribution, customer engagement, and commercial strategy.

A longtime leader within the confectionery industry, Smith has been actively involved with NCA for many years, including serving as chairman of the association's State of the Industry Conference. He has also participated in numerous industry committees and initiatives through NCA, the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), and the Convenience Distribution Association (CDA).

Smith is a graduate of Texas A&M University and resides in Texas with his wife and two daughters. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and pursuing his passion for the outdoors.

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