Exciting News
Dear Friends and Colleagues:
I am writing to share that after 28 years with TPN, I have decided to step down as Chairman. This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I'm grateful for the incredible journey and memories. A smooth and successful exit and handing the reigns to an exceptional new leadership team at TPN is a perfect culmination of this chapter in my life’s work.
In the Spring of '96, I met Sharon Love and Roger Winter at my favorite restaurant in Washington D.C. (the now defunct Nora for you foodies). It was meant to be. Sharon and Roger, then President and CEO of TPN, impressed me with their vision and commitment to culture. So, I left ProServ, a world-renowned sports marketing firm to join what was then a small sales promotion agency in Texas. I am amazed by what we, along with talented TPNers, have built. From a 30-person agency, TPN has grown to a leading global commerce agency with 500+ people, $100M+ in revenues and enduring client partnerships with the world's most admired companies.
Among a range of emotions, my gratitude tops the list.
Thank you to:
Sharon and Roger for bringing me on board as their partner. I feel lucky to have been Robin to Sharon's Batman for almost three decades. We have collaborated toward our shared vision to make TPN a place that puts people first, operates with integrity and adds significant value to our clients’ businesses.
TPN SOUL. A value and operating system based on the five pillars of curiosity, empathy, collaboration, respect and drive—we have consistently reinvented TPN to lead the industry and become vital to our clients, attested by their loyalty and frequent referrals.
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TPNers, past and present. You are an amazing collection of people who made this journey so fulfilling. TPN SOUL is real—a competitive advantage inspiring top talent and coveted clients to come, stay and grow with the agency. TPN's best days are ahead, and I will be championing you. Ellen Cook, Sarah Cunningham and Tracy Faloon, with the entire leadership team and talented TPNers, are unstoppable.
Clients who entrust TPN to partner on critical and dynamic aspects of their business. To help our clients grow many of the world’s most admired brands—while building enduring friendships—is so gratifying.
Omnicom, DAS (Diversified Agency Services) and OCG (Omnicom Commerce Group) for partnering to help TPN evolve. We joined Omnicom in 2001, a partnership pivotal to our success, driving exceptional growth and global expansion. TPN's 2023 transformation and my rise to Chairman has brought my career full circle, having started out after college with Omnicom’s iconic DDB.
My wife Margie and our four kids (who arrived after I joined TPN). You’ve been supportive, patient and excellent (free) focus groups.
I am excited for my next act; I will not be retiring but rewiring! As I reflect on my career, I believe building businesses, cultures and people is what has been the most rewarding. With that in mind, I will be advising and investing in high-potential companies and talent where I can contribute meaningfully. Sprocket Sports, the next-generation youth sports platform created by the team that built the highly successful bswift, is first in the portfolio.
I will also serve as President of The Smart Family Foundation, where I have acted as a Director for many years. By optimizing investments and sharing our expertise, I hope to elevate the 70-year-old foundation’s impact on the organizations we support, primarily in education, gun control and the arts. I intend to do both good and well in my next chapter – to achieve success with significance.
As I exit, TPN SOUL—curiosity, empathy, collaboration, respect and drive—is forever intertwined with my own.
Chief Commercial Officer
10moCongrats on an amazing journey! I remember the Roger W days and truly enjoyed your leadership over the years. “It was IN you!”
Senior-level Marketing Leader | Brand Builder | Team Builder | Results-driven Marketer within CPG Food & Beverages, Toys, Gaming & Healthcare Industries
10moRich, Congratulations on your new adventures. They are lucky to have your leadership and guidance. Working with you and the TPN team on so many Gatorade and Trop programs back in the day was always fun and a pleasure. Wishing you continued success.
Client Services & Recruiting Professional
10moCongratulations Rich! So exciting to read this update. Wishing you the best “next chapter”. Fortunate to have had the chance to work with you. Hope all is well.
CoFounder of WoundCareIQ and MobileCareMD | Board Member | Entrepreneur | Speaker and Podcast Host | Changing The Way Chronic Wounds Are Treated
10moLove this and can’t wait for the next chapter Rich Feitler
Delivering best in class Corporate Merchandise and Premiums as well as on field and sideline gear for Pro/College sports teams
10moWell done Rich!!! So excited for your next chapter!!!