The Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) has appointed Jennifer Linke as Vice President, Association Relations, a newly created executive leadership position. Linke will oversee member and retailer engagement, marketing and communications, and programs and events. Linke brings 25 years of private brand and retail experience to the role. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Procurement at Union Supply Group, a division of Aramark, where she led supplier relationships, procurement, sourcing and private brand development. Earlier positions include Vice President of Retail at Aramark, senior leadership roles in brand and category management at Federated Group, and merchandising, procurement and sourcing roles with ALDI USA and Sears/Kmart. She has also been actively involved with WISE since its founding in 2012 and served as the organization's Chair for three years.
Strategic Timing "PLMA continues to evolve alongside a private brand industry that is growing in scale, sophistication and strategic importance," said Peggy Davies, President of PLMA. "Jen's leadership will help us build on that momentum by strengthening connections among our members, retailers and industry partners and creating more opportunities for collaboration, engagement and year-round value." Linke's appointment supports PLMA's BRIDGE strategy—Building Resilience, Innovation, Development, Growth and Excellence—which guides the Association's evolution as a year-round industry resource. The strategy focuses on strengthening industry leadership and insights, deepening member engagement, expanding education and professional development, fostering collaboration, and enhancing value delivered to members. "I am honored to join PLMA at an important time for both the Association and the private label industry," said Linke. "I look forward to bringing my industry experience to PLMA and working with its members and retailers to identify new ways to connect, collaborate and grow."
Why It Matters
The appointment reflects PLMA's commitment to expanding engagement across its 5,200-member network amid growing consumer interest in private label products. With the trade association managing annual conferences, trade shows in Chicago and Amsterdam, and year-round professional development, Linke's retail procurement background positions her to align member offerings with retailer priorities.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
