“We thank and honor Hans for his tremendous service over the last twelve years. Hans’ vision and passion for the industry were instrumental in establishing and growing GALA into the industry-leading association that it is today,” said Robert Etches, GALA Board Chairman. “Hans has made countless contributions to GALA’s success, and it’s no exaggeration to say that GALA wouldn’t be here without him.”
“The time has come for me to move on and apply my creative energies elsewhere,” said Fenstermacher. “I have the utmost confidence that GALA will continue to thrive under the stewardship of the current staff and board.”
Fenstermacher founded GALA in 2002 with a group of like-minded language industry leaders. Over a dozen years, he served as Board Chairman over four two-year terms and most recently as GALA’s CEO for nearly two years. Since its founding, GALA has grown into the leading industry association for the language enterprise, offering programs and services to more than 400 member companies in 50 countries.
The association has no immediate plans to replace the departing CEO. Association operations will continue to be handled by the GALA staff led by long-time executive and COO, Laura Brandon, with active strategic guidance and participation of the Board.
“In Q4 2014 the GALA Board of Directors will be announcing new initiatives aimed at further engaging and empowering the membership,” said Robert Etches. “The Board must now take up where Hans left off and continue to make the association the go-to place for our industry.”