NASHVILLE—The Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI) announced the resignation of  Linnea Keen, its president and CEO. She will be replaced by Dale Coates, who  most recently served as COO.  Word of the development came from TLMI Chair Mark Glendenning at the conclusion of the 2025 Annual Meeting at the JW Marriott in Marco Island, FL, Oct. 14. 

Prior to TLMI, Keen worked at UPM Raflatac for about 20 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of South Alabama and an MBA from Western Carolina University. 

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as a steward of TLMI over the past five-and-one-half years,” Keen said. “TLMI is an incredible organization. I sat in the seat for 15 years as a supplier member, truly honored to step up and to serve TLMI. I always knew that it could be more and so happy that I could participate.” 

Keen hired Coates as TLMI’s engagement director in 2020. Coates later served as VP of member operations and engagement. 

TLMI’s new CEO previously worked at Unison Tube and Franklin International and holds a PhD in polymer science from the University of Connecticut and a Bachelor of Science in physics/engineering from Washington and Lee University. She has also been a supplier member of TLMI.

Pictured: Keen (Left) and Coates