Philip J. Shankman

Class of 2012

Philip J. Shankman says one of his earliest memories of the confectionery industry was while still in kindergarten when he drove around with his father who was making sales calls.

He was born on July 23, 1960, in Evanston, IL, to Steve and Marybeth, who also raised his sister Jennifer.

He says his most memorable career moment was when he was just seven years old and got a splinter while climbing the store racks to help his dad take inventory. His father and great uncles Sam and Les had the biggest impact on his career.

In 1978, he graduated from Shaker Heights High School, in Shaker Heights, OH, and earned his B.A. in economics and political science from Miami University, graduating in 1982.

He married Karen on May 24, 1985, in Chagrin Falls, OH. They have two daughters: Lindsay and Madeline.

Phil worked in sales for the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., from 1982 to 1984.

He began his 28-year career working for Shankman & Assoc., Inc., a family-owned business, in 1984 as a salesperson. He was then promoted to Vice-President in 1992, and since 2003 he has been the company’s President.

He advises anyone entering the confectionery industry to think more, collaborate and hear what is being said. He says he works hard to listen to and act on the suggestions of his employees.

Earning the right to guide his extremely talented group at Shankman & Assoc. has been one of Phil’s biggest day-to-day business challenges.

The support and the sacrifices Phil’s family has made, and joining incredible business people have contributed the most to his success, he says.

Phil serves on the National Confectioners Association Customer Relations and Broker Advisory Committees and has served two terms on the NCA Board of Trustees and Executive Board: one term from 2002 to 2004, and the other from 2006 to 2008. He also won the Lou Spector Golden Candy Dish award in 2005.

During his time away from the confectionery industry, Phil enjoys traveling, golfing and discussing politics.