The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) announced today that Mary Szarmach, Sr. V.P. Governmental & External Affairs at Smoker Friendly, has been elected as the incoming secretary on the PCA Executive Committee. Her term will begin July 11, 2023, at the PCA board meeting during the annual Convention and Trade Show.

“It is I truly an honor to be elected to the executive committee at this time at this great organization. The advocacy work PCA does is a critical element to keeping our industry alive and thriving. For the past several years, I have been the VP of External Government Relations at Smoker Friendly and I am looking forward to using my experience to help lead PCA’s advocacy work to new heights,” said Szarmach.

“Mary has been a great voice on the board and her insights are invaluable. Not only is she a force in our state advocacy efforts, but her knowledge and relationships with allied industries will be a tremendous asset as she takes the next step in her leadership path with PCA,” commented PCA President Greg Zimmerman.

“This was one of the first times that I can remember we had so many who wanted to be considered for the Executive Committee,” said Zimmerman. “It’s a testament to the quality of members serving on the board, their dedication to this industry, and I think the evolution of the board to where we are today.”

Szarmach will replace Zimmerman on the Executive Committee as his term as PCA President expires in July. Scott Regina is slated to succeed Zimmermann as President as Zimmermann will move into the Ex-Officio position. Executive Committee members typically serve as officers in a cycle. Assuming Szarmach completes the cycle, she will become the PCA’s President in 2033.