SAMA Announces Libby Souder as Chief Executive Officer

Chicago, IL – February 2026 – The Strategic Account Management Association (SAMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Libby Souder as Chief Executive Officer, marking an important milestone in the organization’s continued evolution and long-term strategic direction.

Libby’s appointment reflects a resounding endorsement of her deep and enduring connection to the global strategic account management community and her longstanding commitment to SAMA’s mission. With more than 25 years of direct experience with SAMA — as a member, consultant, knowledge partner, and recognized thought leader — Libby brings unmatched institutional knowledge, credibility, and dedication to advancing the practice of strategic account management worldwide.

“Libby has earned the trust and respect of the SAMA community through decades of leadership, insight, and service to the profession,” said Jim Ford, SAMA Board Chair. “Her rapport and connectivity with our corporate members, knowledge partners, sponsors, and the entire SAMA community is unrivaled. Libby’s ability to translate member needs into meaningful solutions and events makes her the right leader for this moment. We are excited about the future of SAMA under her leadership and the continued value we will deliver to our members and partners.”

As a subject matter expert in SAM best practices, Libby has developed extensive and trusted relationships across SAMA’s global ecosystem, which includes academics, consultants, and practitioners. Her experience demonstrates a rare combination of strategic vision, operational discipline, and forward-looking creativity.

Prior to her appointment to CEO, Libby served as SAMA’s Director of Knowledge, Training, Certification & Research, where she led critical initiatives shaping SAMA’s research agenda, learning programs, and certification standards. Over the course of her tenure with SAMA she has held multiple leadership roles.

Libby is known throughout the SAMA community as a trusted and neutral advisor, valued for her ability to help members navigate both individual and organizational challenges. Her member-first orientation, combined with a strong understanding of market demands and financial oversight, positions her to lead SAMA with integrity and performance focus.

For SAMA members, Libby’s appointment represents both continuity and momentum. She is uniquely qualified to build on SAMA’s strengths while guiding the organization toward its next phase of growth — ensuring SAMA continues to deliver research, education, and advisory resources that are practical, relevant, and aligned with the outcomes members care about most: stronger customer relationships, improved execution, and sustained value creation.