HALO (PPAI 106462, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 2 distributor, has announced that Jim Hilt has been named as the company’s new CEO. He will succeed Marc Simon, who is retiring after 25 years of leading the Sterling, Illinois-based firm.
- The transition will occur over the course of August and Hilt’s tenure as CEO will be effective September 2.
- Hilt comes to HALO from Asset Marketing Services, where he served as CEO for two and a half years. He was instrumental in the company’s sale to A-Mark Precious Metals.
“HALO is a strong, innovative company and a clear leader in the industry,” says Hilt. “That reputation is built on trusted partnerships with clients and suppliers, along with a commitment to creating amazing brand products and experiences that impact people every day.
Jim Hilt
Incoming CEO, HALO
“I’m excited to join such a talented team, support our people-first sales approach and drive new opportunities for growth.”
Hilt’s other leadership positions include stops at:
- Shutterfly
- Express
- Barnes & Noble
- Sears Holdings
- IBM
HALO Branded Solutions is a portfolio company of TPG. According to Scott Gilbertson, a partner at TPG, the decision to bring in Hilt following Simon’s retirement was made to ensure a new step was taken in the company’s development.
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“Jim is a proven leader with the vision, executional discipline and customer focus to build on HALO’s strong foundation,” says Gilbertson. “We are confident he will drive the next stage of growth and deliver even greater value for our clients, account executives and partners.”
‘Honor Of My Career’
Under Simon’s leadership, HALO grew to soaring heights, achieving more than $1 billion in annual sales. The firm has been a leader in the industry while following Simon’s guidance.
- HALO received 2025 PPAI 100 High Marks in Revenue, Growth, Professional Development, Responsibility, Innovation and Online Presence.
“Serving as CEO of HALO has been the honor of my career,” says Simon. “I’m proud of the growth we’ve achieved, the innovation we’ve embraced and the culture we’ve built. HALO is well positioned for continued success, with a talented leadership team and an extraordinary group of account executives and employees.”
Marc Simon
Outgoing CEO, HALO
Gilbertson expressed his gratitude for having Simon take HALO to the position that it now holds in the promo industry.
“We are fortunate to have been Marc’s partner, grateful for his exceptional leadership and deeply appreciative of his many years of dedicated service and lasting impact on HALO,” says Gilbertson.
