The Premium Cigar Association announced that Mike Gold, President of Arango Cigar Co., has been appointed to the PCA Board of Directors to fulfill the balance of Alan Rubin’s term, which will conclude at the PCA trade show in 2024. Rubin stepped down from his board seat at the conclusion of the sale of the Alec Bradley Cigar Company to STG last month.
“Mike has been an incredible force for the industry for decades and his perspective and insights will be invaluable for the Board,” said Greg Zimmerman, president of the PCA Board of Directors. “Mike really understands the value of our work in the states and will be a tremendous help in guiding our advocacy strategy,” Zimmerman said.
PCA Executive Director Scott Pearce noted Gold’s position and relationships in the industry will help continue bringing multiple stakeholders together. “I met Mike early on in my tenure here at PCA and he has always been at the ready to help. He is involved in so many different aspects of the industry, so he has viewpoints that are tremendously beneficial.”
Gold, who has been in the industry for over forty years as an importer and distributor, expressed his enthusiasm for bringing more of the industry together in its common defense. “PCA has always been a major force in our Industry,” said Gold. “It is my honor and pleasure to once again be able to work with this very impressive and important group of Board members. I hope my insight and experiences can benefit everyone that is involved in this organization including Retailers, Wholesalers, Importers and Manufacturers.”
Gold was on the ballot during last year’s associate member election and Pearce remarked it was a very close election. “Really it was just a few votes difference. And with only two seats open, it was very tight. When Alan stepped down, the board felt the best way forward was to reach out to the member who had the next most votes. We’re very grateful Mike accepted. Everyone is looking forward to working with him,” Pearce said.
Rubin lauded Gold and his experience, saying, “Mike is so well respected and has been a leader in our industry for many years. He will be a great addition to the PCA board and will bring great perspective to the organization.”
Zimmerman expressed gratitude for Rubin and all the work he has put in over the years on the advisory board as well as being among the first associates to serve on the PCA Board. “I want to personally, and on behalf of the Board, thank Alan for all of his work and the time and energy he put into volunteering on the Board,” said Zimmerman. “His contributions have been great and will have a significant positive impact on our organization for years to come.”
Pearce echoed Zimmerman’s comments and said that the industry has been fortunate to have had such a steadfast and determined leader on the frontlines working for the betterment of the entirety of the industry. “I’ve always been able to count on Alan for direct and bold honesty on changes to make, how to get better, and in putting in work to fight for premium cigars and pipes. PCA is definitely in a better place now because of his participation, and I am very grateful for the professional and personal relationship I’ve been able to develop with him,” said Pearce.
