Susan Franceschini has stepped down as executive director of ThinkLA after leading the nonprofit association for 17 years. Succeeding her is Don Lupo who’s had a four-year tenure as director of marketing for ThinkLA.
Having previously coordinated three associations–the Los Angeles Advertising Agencies Association, the Ad Club of Los Angeles and the Magazine Representatives Association–Franceschini led the merging of the three groups 14 years ago into a new organization called ThinkLA. Since then, ThinkLA has grown into the premier trade association for the advertising, marketing, and media industry in Los Angeles supporting hundreds of creative and media companies in the Los Angeles area.
Franceschini has been instrumental in building the organization, the board of directors, and key initiatives including LMU’s M-School, and the DIG (Diversity, Inclusion, and Gender) initiative. Franceschini will stay on as an adviser through September before expanding her consulting business, helping individuals and companies build community and connection through personal and professional development.
“I have loved my role at the heart of our community,” says Franceschini. “It has been a privilege to know and work with so many inspiring, creative, and brilliant people over the years. ThinkLA stands as a model for other trade associations in the industry nationwide. I am so proud of what we have accomplished together. I am thrilled to turn over the reins to Don Lupo. He has the passion and creativity ThinkLA needs to evolve.”
The Board of Directors has named Don Lupo to the leadership role. Prior to serving as ThinkLA’s director of marketing, he led digital production and marketing teams with agencies throughout Los Angeles over the past 20 years. Lupo was also a professional photographer and public speaker.
“This is the dream job I didn’t know I wanted,” said Lupo. “When Susan asked me to join ThinkLA, it became the culmination of a long career and an opportunity to serve the industry which has truly given me everything. I have the honor of being part of a team that is dedicated to connect, educate, and inspire with everything we do, from events and webinars to professional forum groups and training. I look forward to continuing the legacy Susan has built along with evolving our ongoing mission to serve the Los Angeles advertising, marketing, and media community.”
