The American Philatelic Society has appointed Kirk Gillis as its next executive director, drawing on his recent leadership at the U.S. Mint, where he oversaw marketing, product strategy, and e-commerce for its numismatic and bullion programs.
Gillis will assume the role on July 14, 2025. He succeeds outgoing executive director Scott English, who announced his departure in November 2024 after nearly a decade of service. The APS Board established a search committee that same month, chaired by then-president Cheryl Ganz.
At the U.S. Mint, Gillis served as deputy associate director and chief sales and marketing officer. Under his leadership, the Mint’s numismatic business grew by 50 per cent over four years, driven by strategic brand development, customer engagement, and modernization of sales platforms.
Beyond the Mint, Gillis brings broad experience across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He launched and scaled digital ventures in East Africa, including ZoomTanzania and PinPoint Africa Media, and previously helped establish the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, leading a national campaign to grow outdoor participation. A U.S. Navy veteran, he holds degrees from Texas A&M University and the University of Rhode Island.
“In Kirk, we’ve found a leader who combines real-world results with a forward-thinking mindset,” said incoming APS president Mark Banchik, who also served on the search committee. “His expertise in innovation, member engagement, and organizational growth will help position APS to thrive in an evolving hobby landscape.”
Gillis said he hopes to engage APS members in a collaborative strategic planning process to grow membership and ensure a vibrant future for both the Society and the hobby.
English will remain with APS through a transition period ending at the Great American Stamp Show in Schaumburg, IL., this August.