David Shaffer is continuing to score success in the golf world – starting on the greens and now into the corporate C-Suite.

The former NCAA Division 1 golfer has risen through the ranks at Missouri-based brand Imperial (asi/75945) and been named president of the 108-year-old golf headwear brand. Imperial, which also offers apparel and accessories, is a key brand carried by Counselor Top 40 firm Sportsman Cap & Bag (asi/88877), the 10^th largest supplier in the North American promotional products industry, executives noted.

David Shaffer, Imperial (asi/75945)

In his new role, Shaffer will manage Imperial’s business across multiple verticals, including golf, corporate, destination/leisure, direct-to-consumer and licensing. “I am excited for my new position and the future of Imperial,” said Shaffer. “Leading the Imperial brand and our team is an honor. I’m looking forward to developing our business, great products and strong partnerships for years to come.”

Shaffer joined Imperial more than a decade ago. He was most recently senior vice president of sales, having previously been in positions that included director of marketing and vice president of sales and marketing.

Imperial noted that Shaffer was instrumental in helping to orchestrate the company’s sale in 2021 to CPC, a Kansas City-based investment holding company. He also played a lead role in the acquisitions of headwear brands JT Spencer in 2022 and Pukka in 2024.

“David embodies all the qualities and characteristics we look for in a leader, as well as the Imperial brand,” said Imperial CEO Todd Johnson. “I have no doubt David will continue to grow our brand while delivering value to our customers and positively impacting the communities we serve.”

Shaffer was a scholarship golfer on the men’s varsity team during his time at Northwestern University, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a master’s in marketing.