The Illinois Manufacturers' Association (IMA) recently announced the hiring of Cindy Tomei as the new vice president for membership and marketing after a comprehensive search. Tomei's decade of experience in the manufacturing industry, along with her keen focus on strategic planning and implementation and membership growth and relations make her an excellent fit for the role.

The IMA is the oldest and one of the largest state manufacturing trade associations in the United States. Founded in 1893, the IMA represents nearly 4,000 member companies and facilities across all sectors of the industry.

"We are pleased to have Cindy joining the IMA team and we know that her talent, expertise and visionary style of leadership will continue to take our organization to new heights," said Greg Baise, president and CEO of the IMA. "She is a motivated leader who will be a strong advocate for the manufacturing sector in Illinois."

Tomei most recently served as president of the Valley Industrial Association, a regional trade association based in the Fox River Valley, where she successfully developed a strategic plan that increased membership and member engagement.

"Illinois manufacturing is vital to the state's economy and the IMA has been the strongest and most effective advocate for Illinois manufacturers since its inception. It will be a privilege and honor to continue working on behalf of manufacturers at this level and with a vibrant IMA team," said Tomei.

Tomei is an active member of her community and serves several philanthropic efforts. She holds a bachelor's in business administration and marketing from Kutztown State College, Kutztown, PA.