OPEI hires VP, communications
The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) announced June 12 that Chuck Bowen, landscape industry insider and long-time associate publisher and editor of Lawn & Landscape magazine, will join the association in the newly created position of vice president, communications, starting on August 7. OPEI is an international trade association representing more than 100 power equipment, engine and utility vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.
“Chuck’s knowledge of the industry and its players, along with his communications background, will help the association face the many changes ahead,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI. “Attacks on the managed landscape, a changing fuels marketplace, and new emissions regulations are just a few issues facing the industry. Chuck will be a key part of our team that responds proactively to those and future challenges that arise.”
“I’m very excited to join the OPEI family,” said Bowen. “Kris and his colleagues have built a strong organization that is poised for even more success and growth in the coming years. The outdoor power equipment industry is vital and vibrant, and I’m excited to work with the membership and support its communications programs like TurfMutt, ‘Look Before You Pump’ and other efforts addressing industry matters.”
Since 2010, Bowen has been the editor and associate publisher of Lawn & Landscape, published by GIE Media. Before assuming that role, Bowen was assistant editor for one year of Pest Control Technology and Quality Assurance, also published by GIE Media.
Before joining GIE Media, Chuck spent several years as a journalist in the Midwest. His work has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Indianapolis Star and Cleveland Magazine. He, his wife and three children will relocate to northern Virginia.
