Above: Visual Connections board: Mitch Mulligan, Andrea Trumble, Luke Wooldridge, Sarah Moore, Mark Canavan, Peter Harper, Russell Cavenagh, John Wall, and Ian Martin

The printing industry has paid tribute to Visual Connections CEO Peter Harper after he announced his retirement this week.

 Harper announced on Wednesday that he will be retiring at the end of this year, bringing to a close a career of more than 50 years in the print, sign and graphics sector.

Harper, who founded the original sign industry supplier association some 30 years ago, has now been at the helm of Visual Connections for the past 18 years.

“Of course, I have mixed feelings, but I know it is the right decision for myself and for the organisation, to allow fresh leadership as we continue to develop our industry events and other exciting initiatives,” Harper said.

The Visual Connections board was advised of Harper’s decision in January this year at the organisation’s board strategy meeting.

Mitch Mulligan, president of the Visual Connections board, said Harper embodies the Visual Connections mission, which is to contribute to a sustainable future by supporting its members – the industry’s suppliers – and the industry more broadly, through education, exhibitions, sponsorship, grants and networking opportunities.

“As well as cementing the success of the Visual Impact expos, Visual Connections has, under his leadership, also successfully taken on the organisation of PacPrint which is co-owned by Visual Connections and Visual Media Association, significantly improving the value for exhibitors and the returns to industry through these associations’ funding of initiatives and resources,” Mulligan said.

“He has proven to be an exceptionally talented negotiator and a kind and steady leader through some of the most challenging times the industry has ever faced, not only bringing the organisation through but, in the process, strengthening its effectiveness and resilience.

“While the events are a very visible sign of his achievements, one of his greatest legacies will be an initiative which is set to deliver significant benefit to the industry for many years to come – the Sign & Print Career Connections program.

“Conceived and piloted initially with the Australian Sign & Graphics Association (ASGA), this is now, through Peter’s hard work and collaborative style, an industry-wide initiative which is actively recruiting new talent to the sector.

Kellie Northwood, CEO of the Visual Media Association (VMA) said Harper has offered a strong leadership across merged associations (GAMAA and VISA), trade show development and flexible navigation through COVID.

“He carries a legacy of engagement and leadership to the suppliers across our industry that will be missed. I, and the Visual Media Association Board and Members, wish Peter the very best in his next life chapter and thank him for his contribution to the industry,” said Northwood.

Mick Harrold, president of the Australian Sign & Graphics Association (ASGA), thanked Harper for his contribution to the industry.

“Congratulations Peter and thank you for all your hard work. The sign and print industries are in your debt for your efforts over many years. I and the ASGA will miss your support and advice.”

Keith Ferrel, co-founder and general manager of Cactus Imaging, said Harper’s leadership of the Visual Connections association, its events and exhibitions – particularly during Covid – has been extremely important to the growth and sustainability of this sector and has delivered enormous value to the printing industry.

“Peter has always been an inspiration to me and many others and has always set an incredibly high standard,” said Ferrel.

Andrea Trumble, marketing manager at Pozitive Sign & Graphics Supplies and Visual Connections board member, said Harper has shown exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and visionary contributions that have helped to shape the sign and print industry.  

“Peter will be deeply missed by the Visual Connections Association and its board, but also the entire industry, his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. I can only wish him all the best in his retirement as we move forward in this new chapter.”

Mark Canavan, marketing and vendor relations manager at Graphic Art Mart and Visual Connections board member, said Harper is a calm, experienced, and pragmatic leader who has always been willing to support the industry and its members.

“The signage and wide format digital print landscape has evolved enormously over the last 25 years, and Peter has helped guide the association and deliver successful exhibitions and education programs over this period of time,” said Canavan.

“His experience and guidance will be greatly missed, but I feel that Peter leaves the industry in a strong position as we move into the next phase of its evolution. I want to personally wish Peter and his family all the very best for his retirement and for what the future holds in store for them.”

Tony Dalleore, secretary of the FPLMA, said Harper has always been an extremely ethical, passionate, and well networked icon for the industry.

“This is exemplified through his recent drive to expand the highly successful education initiative to a significantly broader scope within our industry with the aim of attracting talent. On behalf of the FPLMA we congratulate Peter on his wide range of achievements which will continue to foster into the future.”

Harper will officially retire at the end of December, with the board expected to announce his successor well before this date.

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