Angie Burlison has been named as the new executive director of Retail Confectioners International. She most recently worked as marketing communications manager for Tuthill Corp., a manufacturing company. 

Angie Burlison

Burlison is replacing Kelly Brinkmann, who announced that she was leaving in April to stay home with her three children.  

“As she has said many times, while Kelly considers RCI a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, being a full-time mom is also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says Denise Alvarez, RCI's marketing manager.

"Kelly served RCI at a critical time and she has helped transform the organization,” says Doug Dressman, RCI's 2013-2014 incoming board president, and v.p. of operations for Esther Price Candies Corp. “Although we are saddened that she is departing, we certainly understand her decision to stay at home with her young family.”

Dressman added that he’s excited that Burlison is joining the organization.

“We look forward to a smooth transition,” he says. “Angie brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm and we have no doubt the organization will be poised for continued growth under her leadership."

As executive director, Burlison will be responsible for the direction and operation of the association. She will be working with the board of directors, publishing RCI materials and directing financial operations and stewardship.

"I look forward to being a part of the RCI family and learning how we can further support our members," says Burlison.

Burlison has more than 10 years experience working with strategic planning, marketing communications, event planning and trade show management.

At Tuthill, she managed a $500,000 budget, supervised administrative staff, developed advertising and literature, coordinated all national sales meeting events and oversaw the company's trade show program.

She is also active in the local Springfield, Mo. community, engaged with Leadership Springfield and the Junior League of Springfield.