ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 29, 2008 – The Vinyl Institute (VI), headquartered in Arlington, Va., announced the hiring of Gregory J. Bocchi as President, effective May 1, 2008.
Bocchi comes to VI from The Powder Coating Institute (PCI), where he served as the chief staff executive for the organization.
Bocchi’s responsibilities with VI will include developing and implementing an overall strategic plan, leading a strong marketing and promotional campaign, and integrating the VI agenda with relevant vinyl industry organizations, all to maximize impact and value for the membership.
“I’m pleased to join The Vinyl Institute at a time when energy efficiency has become a very important issue,” said Bocchi. I’ve learned quickly that vinyl saves energy and reduces CO2 emissions. It takes less energy to produce than many competing products and saves fossil fuels. Vinyl also saves fossil fuels. Its principal raw material (nearly 60 percent) is derived from common salt. Vinyl building products are durable, highly energy-efficient and will play a significant role in a more resource-conscious future. I look forward to working with the member companies to promote greater recognition of the many benefits of vinyl.”
Bocchi brings to VI a broad range of association management experience and strong technical knowledge. He spearheaded the development of a marketing & advertising plan designed to increase powder coating's share of the North American finishing market. The plan implemented advertising, public relations, market research, direct mail, the PCI web site, and other materials and activities to promote the benefits of powder coating technology and powder coated products to manufacturing decision-makers and the consumer buying public.
Prior to joining PCI, Bocchi was with Association Management Inc., in Washington, D.C., where he held executive management positions with the Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association, the National Corrugated Steel Pipe Association and the Scale Manufacturers Association.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Washington State University and is a member of the American Society of Association Executives.
Founded in 1982, VI is a national independent trade association representing the leading manufacturers of vinyl plastics, as well as makers of vinyl feedstocks, additives, and film and sheet products.