Amanda Del Prete, who has been managing director of Hallmark UK and Ireland for the last three years and a GCA Council member during that time, has taken “the family decision, after 10 years ‘on the road’” to head back to her native Australia with her husband and 14 year old son.
The news was announced internally at Hallmark a few months ago and active recruitment is underway for Amanda’s replacement. Her last day in the role was yesterday (30 November). She said yesterday: “As I close out my last day, I am definitely a sad Hallmarker but being closer to our friends and family has never felt more important.”
Amanda explained that her “love of this industry” and Hallmark brand has spanned over 28 years, involving posts in Australia, the US and the UK. Of her UK experience, Amanda said that she feels “very lucky to have had the opportunity to be part of the UK market. There is no doubt that the greeting card category in the UK is one of the strongest and most resilient across the globe, which is fantastic!”
In her farewell message to fellow GCA Council members, Amanda praised the association and its leadership. “I truly believe the work of the GCA, under Amanda’s leadership, and the support that you all provide as Council members continues to make a real difference. And it has always been very refreshing to see everyone coming together for the ‘greater good’.”
To continue Hallmark’s commitment to the GCA Fiona Pitt, the publisher’s commercial head is joining the Council to replace Amanda with immediate effect.
Fiona has been with Hallmark for over 25 years and in that time has gained a wealth of experience across all facets of the industry. For the last couple of years Fiona has been Hallmark’s head of commercial, supporting a diverse blend of customers from independent stores, through to high street chains, online trade and grocery retailers.
Top: Amanda Del Prete on the Hallmark stand at PG Live which saw the launch of its CupCyling range, with board partly made from recycled disposable coffee cups.
