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NCSG and CSIA Executive Director Announces Resignation March 21, 2013 - Executive Director Mark McSweeney, CAE has announced that he will resign from the National Chimney Sweep Guild and the Chimney Safety Institute of America effective April 16, 2013. Mark has accepted a new opportunity in the Indianapolis area, remaining in the association management field. Mark's legacy leaves NCSG and CSIA in strong leadership positions for the future. Serving more than ten years, Mark is the longest-tenured Executive Director in the history of the organizations. During his tenure, Mark guided the National Chimney Sweep Guild through the reorganization of regional representation, the introduction of a comprehensive general liability insurance program for the industry, increased international recognition and multiple successful conventions and trade shows. He guided the Chimney Safety Institute of America through the restructure of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® program, governance restructure, the early payoff of the CSIA Technology Center mortgage, several landmark challenges to protect CSIA's trademarks in federal court, and unparalleled media exposure increasing awareness of CSIA certification across the country. "I am truly honored to have been entrusted with the administrative leadership of both of these organizations for more than a decade, and am very proud of the many accomplishments I have shared with the talented professional and volunteer team around me," stated McSweeney. "I will treasure the experience and look forward to watching with fondness the continued growth and success of the industry and all within it." McSweeney leaves NCSG and CSIA positioned for success with a number of initiatives that the boards and staff will be exploring in the months ahead. "We have achieved significant success during my tenure, but as in any vibrant organization there is still great work to do." Both organizations thank Mark McSweeney for his expertise and dedication during his tenure as Executive Director. Jay Walker, President of the National Chimney Sweep Guild, said "Mark has been a true asset to the Guild and we wish him well. His association management expertise has positioned us for a strong future." John Pilger, President of the Chimney Safety Institute of America adds "Having Mark at the helm has certainly helped us keep perspective when it comes to opportunities as a non-profit educational organization. He knows his stuff and he'll be missed." The NCSG and CSIA Executive Committees will be selecting an Executive Search committee to begin the selection process for a new Executive Director to lead the organizations' professional operations.