Kim Althoff Shares New, Bold, Inclusive Future of ISSA

At the ISSA Spotlight Event & Awards ceremony at ISSA Show North America on Tuesday, Kim Althoff delivered her first official address as the new executive director of ISSA, sharing a heartfelt message of gratitude, unity, and purpose. Her remarks reflected both deep respect for the association’s legacy and a clear vision for its future evolution as the “The Association for Cleaning & Facility Solutions.”

Althoff began by acknowledging her predecessor, John Barrett, whose leadership she credited with taking ISSA “to profound new heights.” She expressed appreciation for his “unwavering dedication, impact, mentorship, and friendship,” emphasizing that his legacy will continue to guide the association for years to come.

Stepping into the new role, Althoff said she felt “a deep sense of responsibility” rooted in her long career within the industry. “This community is built on hard work, integrity, and a shared commitment to making the world cleaner and safer,” she said. “I’m passionate about this work and passionate about all of you.”

She reaffirmed that ISSA’s newly developed strategic plan is not merely a document but “a roadmap to better serve our members.” The focus, she said, is on purposeful innovation and clear, consistent leadership that prioritizes members’ success.

Althoff outlined several core priorities for the organization. First, ISSA will tailor programs and services more specifically to the needs of each member segment—whether manufacturer, distributor, building service contractor, or in-house service professional. Second, the association will invest more heavily in relationship management.

“That means getting to know you better—your business, your goals, your challenges—and working together to help your business thrive and succeed,” she said. “We want every member to be seen and heard. This is all about building stronger relationships and making sure ISSA is where you belong and where you have a partner you can count on.”

One of the most notable announcements came as Althoff unveiled ISSA’s refreshed tagline: ISSA, the Association for Cleaning and Facility Solutions. The new identity, she said, reflects the association’s inclusive and expanding scope across the entire cleaning and facility care ecosystem.

“It reflects not only who we are today but also where we are headed,” Althoff explained. “It speaks to the full spectrum of organizations and professionals we serve. Cleaning and facility solutions are at the heart of healthy environments, and ISSA is proud to be a global leader in this space.”

In closing, Althoff expressed sincere gratitude to ISSA members, partners, and staff, recognizing their commitment as the foundation of the association’s success. She offered special thanks to her family and colleagues—particularly the ISSA Hygieia Network community, including Linda Silverman, Meredith Reuben, and Carey Jaros—for their support and encouragement throughout her journey.

“Because of your commitment, our association continues to thrive,” she said. “I am truly optimistic about what we can accomplish together. We are stronger together.”

With her passion for people and purpose, Kim Althoff’s leadership signals a confident new chapter for ISSA—one grounded in collaboration, clarity, and the belief that the cleaning industry’s impact reaches far beyond its surface.