The Book Manufacturers’ Institute (BMI) has proudly announced Bridget Freidel of Thomson Reuters Core Publishing Solutions and Patrick Spellman of LBS as the esteemed recipients of the 2024 Rising Star Award. This prestigious honor recognizes emerging leaders within the book industry who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to their companies, communities, and the broader industry landscape.
Established to highlight professionals who, despite not having extensive tenure in the industry, exhibit outstanding potential and impact, the Rising Star Award for 2024 marks a significant milestone as the first time the award has been bestowed upon two deserving winners—one from an Active (printer) member and the other from an Associate (supplier) member of BMI.
The awards ceremony took place at the 2024 BMI Spring Management Conference held on May 6, 2024, in Arlington, VA, where BMI Board Member Carlos Martins of Muller Martini presented the awards to the deserving recipients.
Steve Zweber, speaking in support of Bridget Freidel’s nomination, shared, “Bridget started out in CPS as a summer intern and has continued to excel in her career path since she started. Bridget’s first full-time role was a Continuous Improvement analyst and within 5-years at CPS, Bridget has progressed to a Senior CI/Lean Business Process Analyst leading our CI, Lean and Training programs. Bridget has a fire inside to continually improve, grow and make a difference. We look to fuel that fire. Bridget views tasks assigned to her as opportunities to grow even when they may be out of her comfort zone. She recognizes it will make her a better leader.”
Similarly, Rob Maurtiz of LBS lauded Patrick Spellman, remarking, “Patrick manages his accounts with great care and attention to detail. He provides only ‘best in class’ service by providing confidence to our customers that they are receiving our very best every day in both service and with quality materials that meet their needs. Patrick is a regular volunteer at our ‘Giving Back’ program, Meals from the Heartland, where as a company we provide food packages for those less fortunate. Patrick is an active member of the BMI Program Committee and attends and participates in most all BMI events.”
Nominees for the Rising Star Award were evaluated based on criteria including sustained excellent job performance, impactful contributions to their company, community, and/or industry, ongoing training and education within the industry, and exemplary demonstration of customer service, community service, and industry service.
The recognition of Bridget Freidel and Patrick Spellman as 2024 Rising Stars underscores their dedication and promise within the book manufacturing industry, reflecting BMI’s commitment to celebrating and nurturing emerging talent shaping the future of the field.