Scott Pearce Leaving PCA, Joining Cigar Association of America
Scott Pearce, who has served as executive director of the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) since 2018, is leaving the PCA to assume the role of president of the Cigar Association of America.
“I’m extremely proud and honored for the opportunity I had to work with the great staff and boards of PCA over the past six years and what we’ve accomplished,” Pearce told Cigar Aficionado. “I look forward to the next chapter of working in the cigar industry to defend and fight for all the great companies and people that make up this incredible industry.”
Pearce’s last day with the PCA will be in May. According to a release issued this afternoon by the PCA, his last day will be May 24. A release issued by the CAA shortly after said his last day with PCA would be May 21. Both statements said his role with CAA will begin on May 28.
Both groups are leading trade organizations in the cigar industry, but with quite different roles. The PCA represents retailers of premium cigars with an emphasis on handmade products, and is the host of the most important trade show in the American cigar industry. The CAA is an organization for the entire cigar business, and its largest and most powerful member companies are those that make cigars by machine. Both groups were part of the cigar industry lawsuit (along with the Cigar Rights of America) against the FDA.
PCA deputy executive director Joshua Habursky has been named interim executive director.
