PRINTING United Alliance, a comprehensive, member-based printing and graphic arts association in North America, has announced key leadership updates within the organization as part of its continued evolution to support long-term growth and service to the global printing industry.

The Alliance has announced the following leadership appointments. Chris Lyons will step into the role of Group President, where he will oversee sales across Alliance media brands and events. Meanwhile, Denise M. Gustavson has been appointed as vice president of Editorial and Content Strategy in recognition of her ongoing and expanding role in editorial content and strategy across Alliance media outlets and brands. Finally, Josh Carruth will take on expanded leadership responsibilities, including oversight of PRINTING United Expo operations as EVP Expositions, in addition to membership.

“These leadership advancements reflect the strength of our team and our commitment to promoting from within,” says Ford Bowers, CEO, PRINTING United Alliance. “We are confident in the experience, vision, and continuity Chris, Josh, and Denise bring, in addition to our more than 100 other professionals on staff, as we continue to serve our members and the industry at the highest level.”

About the appointments

Lyons has served as a dedicated industry executive, having run many of the industry’s top media and event brands. He has also launched numerous others, while having served in key executive roles at Scholastic Children’s Books and Kodak. 

“I’m honored to step into this role and continue working closely with our partners to deliver even more meaningful value across our complete portfolio,” remarks Lyons. “There is tremendous momentum across the Alliance, and I’m excited to help build on our past success while delivering on many of the new and exciting initiatives we are bringing to market.”

A recognized voice in the printing industry, Gustavson began her career in 1998 and brings more than 28 years of experience. She also serves as a professional advisor for the Women in Print Alliance and is a frequent speaker on industry trends, technology, and business growth.

“The Alliance has more touchpoints with this industry than most organizations — media, education, events, research,” states Gustavson. “The industry trusts us across all of those channels, and my job is to make sure we’re earning that trust on the content side – being precise about what we cover, who we serve, and why it matters.”

Carruth brings more than two decades of experience in event strategy, media, and community development. Since joining the Alliance in 2021, he has played a key role in expanding engagement and strengthening the industry community. He now leads Expo strategy and cross-functional teams for PRINTING United Expo.

“PRINTING United Expo is the defining platform for the industry, and I’m proud to step into this expanded role at a time when the momentum behind this event continues to build, driven by years of execution, vision, and meaningful results,” says Carruth. “This show is a direct reflection of the industry, and that industry is evolving, resilient, and strong. With an exceptional team behind it, we’re focused on delivering real value to attendees and building a stronger industry community, strengthening the entire ecosystem, and creating even greater opportunity for our exhibitors and partners.”