Amscan International’s chief executive officer, Gary Panons, has become the company’s first executive chairman as chief financial officer and chief operating officer, Joe Hennigan, will become chief executive officer on April 1. 

With over £250 million annual turnover and over 2,500 employees worldwide, the Amscan International brand continued to build on its global footing with the acquisition of German foil balloon printing business, Luftballon-Markt, in 2021, as well as undergoing its own buyout at the start of the year. 

“There are hugely exciting times ahead for Amscan International with further organic growth and acquisitions,” says Panons. “We have incredibly supportive investors and partners in Endless, a great leadership team and a wealth of experience and energy across all areas of our business. Part of any evolution is growing, developing and harnessing positive change. These changes to our board structure are entirely right for the stage and future success of our business, and I am delighted that Joe will be my successor as CEO. His strategic insight, deep experience of the industry and relentless pursuit of success will be instrumental to further growth.” 

Headquartered in Milton Keynes, U.K., Amscan International is a global designer, manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler and retailer of party products and supplies. In 2011, Panons joined Amscan International after the company he was managing director of, Christy’s by Design, was acquired by the business. 

In 2016, Hennigan moved from PwC to Amscan International as chief financial officer, before also becoming chief operating officer in 2019. 

“We have an exceptional team at Amscan International and we are all excited for what the future holds as we further expand the business,” says Hennigan. “We have a clear strategic growth plan and the funds available to make additional investments to accelerate the plan. These are exciting times and I look forward to continuing to work closely with Gary and the senior management team as we progress our strategic plan.” 

As Hennigan moves to chief executive officer on April 1, current group finance director, Rob Sidell, will then become chief financial officer.