NSSF appoints vice presidents ahead of 2026 leadership transition

NSSF has announced two senior appointments to its executive leadership team, effective January 1, 2026. Melissa Schilling will assume the role of vice president, exhibitions and events, while John McNamara will become vice president, member services.

The organisation also confirmed that Chris Dolnack, senior vice president and chief customer officer, will retire on April 2, 2026. Dolnack’s career with NSSF spans nearly 30 years and includes long-standing leadership of the SHOT Show.

“Both Melissa and John will be outstanding additions to NSSF’s executive team,” said NSSF president and CEO Joe Bartozzi. “Their commitment to excellence and to NSSF’s mission has and will continue to drive our organization forward.”

Bartozzi also acknowledged Dolnack’s contribution to the association. “I also extend an enormous amount of thanks to Chris Dolnack for his leadership and service to NSSF and our industry over the years,” he said. “He has played an immense role in the success of NSSF and its signature event, the SHOT Show, and we wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”

Schilling joined NSSF in 2003 and has held a series of positions across the organisation, including roles in public relations, recruitment and retention. Most recently she has served as managing director of exhibitions and events, overseeing the planning and delivery of the SHOT Show and a range of other NSSF events.

McNamara joined the association in 2017 as senior director of retailer services, moving to managing director of member services in 2021. His work has included strengthening member engagement, developing partnerships, increasing revenue and aligning departmental initiatives with broader organisational objectives. Before joining NSSF, he was executive vice president at PTR Industries.


http://​www.nssf.org

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