World’s Leading Chief Executive Organization Marks 50th Anniversary in 2007
media contact:
Tony Vignieri
Vistage International
858.509.5882
tony.vignieri@vistage.com
San Diego, CA, April 23, 2007 – For half a century, chief executives have turned to Vistage International to become better leaders, make better decisions and achieve better results. Headquartered in San Diego, Vistage began in Wisconsin in 1957 and has since exponentially expanded to 16 countries, spanning the globe from China to Canada.
The concept behind Vistage began when Wisconsin businessman Robert Nourse and four chief executives met to test a simple but revolutionary idea—by sharing their knowledge and expertise, they could help each other get better results for their businesses. In the office of the Milwaukee Valve Company, TEC (The Executive Committee) was born.
Today, 50 years later, more than 13,500 business leaders are members of Vistage International (TEC’s successor) and its global affiliates—representing the world’s leading chief executive organization based on revenue. Vistage became the new name for TEC in March of 2006. Throughout 2007, Vistage will mark its milestone 50th anniversary with an international gathering at its world headquarters in San Diego.
Vistage members lead businesses with annual sales ranging from $1 million to more than $1 billion, representing the most vital component of the world’s economy. These member-companies generate nearly $300 billion in annual revenue and employ more than 2.1 million people.
“Members benefit deeply from their group experience, contact with their Vistage Chair (the group facilitator) and the ability to network with the global member community,” notes Rafael Pastor, Vistage CEO and Chairman of the Board. “The key to our growth comes from this unique collaborative experience. Our programs thrive because our members thrive.”
Vistage and its affiliates (including TEC, The Executive Committee and The Executive Connection) have groups in countries such as Canada and Australia (launched in 1986); the United Kingdom (launched in 1989); Malaysia (launched in 1995); and Brazil (launched in 1996). Future plans for expansion include China, India and other countries.
about Vistage International
Vistage International and its affiliates have more than 13,500 members in 16 countries representing the world’s leading chief executive organization based on revenue. Vistage members generate nearly $300 billion in annual revenue and have more than 2.1 million employees around the world. Vistage is dedicated to increasing the effectiveness and enhancing the lives of chief executives. Member companies are better run and grow their revenues, on average, at twice the percentage growth rate after joining Vistage.
Vistage International includes operations in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Mexico and the Netherlands. Vistage affiliates include TEC, The Executive Committee and The Executive Connection in the following areas: Florida, Michigan, Wisconsin, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Germany, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and South Africa.