BIFMA, the not for profit trade association for business and institutional furniture manufacturers, announced today that it has appointed Deirdre Jimenez as its first President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

In the new role as the President and CEO, Jimenez will be responsible for leading BIFMA and partnering with its Board of Directors, membership (regular, supplier, service, and international), and staff by connecting and advancing the industry’s common interests through a period of disruption and growth.

Jimenez is both an architect and interior designer with over 25 years of leadership experience serving in executive and ownership roles in corporate real estate and national AE consulting firms. Most of her career focused on the workplace environment, where she developed an understanding and appreciation of the role furnishings play in the emerging practice of workplace strategy. Deirdre is a registered architect in several states, earned the NCIDQ certification, and numerous professional industry awards.

“Deirdre’s strategic drive and her distinguished career in workplace architecture and design make her the perfect choice to lead BIFMA in support of the industry,” said Hank Menke, BIFMA’s Board Chair. “We’re thrilled to welcome Deirdre aboard.”

“At this pivotal stage in the commercial furniture industry, I’m very excited to join BIFMA,” said Jimenez. “Building on the organization’s historical focus and growth-oriented initiatives, I look forward to collaborating with the board of directors, members, and team on telling BIFMA’s story and broadening its outreach.”

Jimenez will succeed Thomas Reardon, who is retiring after a 22-year tenure as Executive Director and playing a major role in shaping BIFMA for the future.

The search was conducted by association and non-profit search experts Vetted Solutions.