#USA #Supply Chain #Tempe #Institute for Supply Management #Neal J. Couture

Neal J. Couture Appointed President and CEO of ISM

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) has officially announced the selection of Neal J. Couture, CAE, FASAE as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. This decision follows a meticulous global search aimed at finding the right leader who can navigate ISM through its next phase of growth. Couture’s extensive background in procurement and association leadership is expected to bring significant value to the organization, further enhancing ISM's role in the global supply chain landscape.

With more than 25 years of experience in leading professional associations and credentialing organizations, Couture has an impressive track record. Most recently, he served as the CEO of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, where he successfully expanded the organization by increasing annual revenue by an astonishing 85.7%. Under his leadership, the association established its first international operations in both India and the Middle East. Moreover, Couture played a pivotal role in creating a $5 million foundation endowment and introducing a proprietary AI platform specifically designed for the profession.

Stacey Taylor, the Chair of the ISM Board of Directors, remarked on the board's commitment to emphasizing member engagement and professional growth throughout the selection process. She stated, "Neal brings a strong track record of leadership, innovation, and member engagement. His vision aligns closely with ISM's mission, making him an exceptional choice to lead our organization forward."

Prior to his role at the American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Couture spent a noteworthy 12 years as executive director of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). He also held positions such as Associate Dean of Finance and Administration at Boston College and was instrumental in launching a graduate degree program in government contracts law from the George Washington University Law School. His early career included roles as a contracting officer for prestigious agencies like the U.S. Air Force and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Couture’s academic qualifications include a Master’s Degree in Education and Human Development from George Washington University, along with his certifications as a Certified Association Executive and a Fellow of the American Society of Association Executives. He will officially take over the CEO role on October 1, 2026, transitioning alongside Interim CEO Debbie Fogel-Monnissen.

Amid the dynamic challenges that supply chain professionals are currently facing, from rapid technological advancements to workforce changes and global economic uncertainties, Couture's appointment comes at a pivotal moment. ISM aims to prioritize research, certification, professional development, and community connections that empower professionals in decision-making to foster capability in the industry.

Couture expressed enthusiasm about his new position, stating, "I am honored to join ISM at a time when supply management is increasingly central to how organizations create value, manage risk, and compete in a global economy. For more than 110 years, ISM has been a trusted source of insight and professional development for the supply management community. I am eager to work together with our members, partners, volunteers, and staff to strengthen the profession and expand its influence."

The ISM Board of Directors also recognized the contributions of Debbie Fogel-Monnissen, acknowledging her steady leadership during the transition period. Her dedication has been pivotal in maintaining ISM's core programs and community engagement while laying a strong foundation for the organization’s future.

For more insights into Neal Couture's vision and ISM's leadership team, visit ismworld.org.

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Founded in 1915, the Institute for Supply Management empowers supply chain professionals through comprehensive education and globally recognized certifications, actively supporting over 200,000 practitioners across more than 100 countries. To learn more about ISM's initiatives and services, check their site.