ASI Appoints Ashish Mittal as CEO for Future Growth
In a significant leadership transition, the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), the prominent authority in the $27.7 billion promotional products sector, has announced the appointment of Ashish Mittal as Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2026. Mittal takes the helm following the retirement of Timothy M. Andrews, who has successfully guided the organization for 23 years. This change signals ASI's commitment to evolving and expanding its impact in the promotional products industry.
A New Vision for ASI
As Mittal steps into his new role, he does so with an extensive background in technology-driven companies. His experience in scaling organizations and leading operations will be crucial in navigating ASI's next phase of growth. The Cohn family, who has long been associated with ASI, continues its stewardship, with third-generation siblings, Matthew Cohn and Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer, now serving as co-chairs of the ASI board. Norman Cohn will transition to the position of chairman emeritus, marking a new era for the organization.
Mittal's qualifications include serving as president and COO of Sticky.io, where he was instrumental in driving growth by introducing AI-powered products and refining operational strategies. He has also held prominent positions at Gopuff and ShopRunner, where he contributed to the expansion of commerce networks and enriched customer experiences. His diverse background blends technology acumen with entrepreneurial spirit, making him an ideal fit for ASI's ambitious goals.
Leadership Endorsements
Matthew Cohn, co-chair of ASI, expressed confidence in Mittal’s capabilities, stating, "In Ashish, we found a leader with the experience, judgment, and energy to guide ASI into its next chapter. He understands how technology platforms grow and how marketplace networks create value for both sides." This sentiment reflects a widespread expectation that Mittal will bring innovative ideas and strategic insights to propel ASI forward in a competitive landscape.
Moreover, Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer emphasized that Mittal's operational background and entrepreneurial mindset will be pivotal for ASI's continued expansion in the promotional products arena. By melding operational discipline with creativity, Mittal is positioned to further enhance the value ASI brings to its stakeholders.
Mittal’s Commitment and Vision
Mittal shared his enthusiasm for joining ASI, inspired by the organization's pivotal role in the promotional products landscape. "ASI plays a unique role in uniting suppliers, distributors, and decorators through technology, insights, and community," he remarked. His vision includes leveraging current trends and the inherent strength of the promotional products market to foster collaboration and growth within the industry.
Founded in 1962, ASI has consistently provided cutting-edge technology platforms, comprehensive research, dynamic media, engaging events, and educational opportunities to thousands of companies worldwide. As Mittal steps into his new role, the organization is set to deepen its commitment to serving its diverse client base while adapting to an ever-evolving market.
As the industry looks ahead, Mittal’s leadership promises an exciting chapter for ASI, filled with possibilities for innovation, community building, and opportunities for all involved in the promotional products sector. For more information about ASI and its services, interested parties can visit
ASICentral.