The EIFS Industry Members Association Board of Directors proudly announced that Stephen T. Sears is now the new Executive Director and CEO of EIMA. Sears’ selection follows a months-long search conducted by EIMA’s Board, fulfilling its due diligence obligation to the EIMA membership.

Prior to joining EIMA, Sears was the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Marketing and Communications at the Brick Industry Association, where he guided the marketing efforts for the brick industry as well as provided oversight for BIA’s advocacy efforts at the state and local levels. “I am delighted to join the dedicated EIMA staff in its mission to advance the knowledge and use of EIFS, especially in a post-pandemic environment,” said Sears.

“The membership of EIMA is looking forward to Stephen taking the EIFS industry and EIMA up to the next level,” said Steve Smithwick, president of Master Wall, Inc. and the 2021-2023 president of EIMA. “The fact is Stephen Sears was at the top of all the selection task force members’ list. His credentials are exquisite and literally outstanding from all the others. This, coupled with the wonderful interview, resulted in an enthusiastic, unanimous vote by the selection task force and the Board.”

Sears has extensive experience in the marketing and communications industries, providing client support and strategic leadership while employed by firms such as Ogilvy and Mather, a WPP company with headquarters in London. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Washington & Lee University and a Master of Business Administration from The Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. Sears also held several appointed positions in the Administration of President George H.W. Bush prior to entering the business world.

Sears assumed his duties effective June 4, 2021, and succeeds long-time Executive Director/CEO David A. Johnston, who is retiring.