Robert A. Jacobson
MPS, Chairman, Board of Directors

Robert A. Jacobson is Senior Vice President and Director of Operations for IMPAC, the world leader in productivity enhancement. He has served IMPAC (Integrated Control Systems, Inc.) also as Chairman of Senior Management. In addition Jacobson has responsibility for training all IMPAC operational personnel around the world.

Mr. Jacobson has worked for IMPAC for more than 31 years, and has held positions of increasing authority and responsibility during this entire timeframe for this worldwide organization. In addition, Mr. Jacobson currently serves as Chairman of the Board of the Association of Productivity Specialists, the leading professional organization in the field. As Chairman of the Association's Board of Directors, Jacobson participated in VISION 2000 in Prague, The Czech Republic. Mr. Jacobson is a certified Master Productivity Specialist in that association.  More...

Heather Rumbold
Treasurer

APS board member and Treasurer Heather Rumbold is an 18-year veteran in the field of productivity improvement.

Ms. Rumbold works in administration and finance with the APS Company she works for. It's fair to say that the productivity world has become a way of life for Ms. Rumbold. She entered the work force directly after graduating from high school. Co-workers say when they think of Ms. Rumbold, they think of reliability and integrity. "I don't even have a resume," Ms. Rumbold said. As one APS member said, ?Heather doesn't need one. It's all in her work product.?

Elaine Clarke
Secretary

Elaine C. Clarke, an accomplished veteran of the productivity improvement industry, has been appointed secretary of APS.

"Elaine's talent and 'can-do' attitude will serve as an inspiration to us all," said APS Chairman Robert Jacobson. "Please welcome Elaine to the team and reach out to her as she helps APS continue to raise the bar for productivity improvement."

Ms. Clarke has more than 30 years of proven success in office administration in the productivity improvement industry. Keeping an office running in an efficient and professional manner is essential for every business and Ms. Clarke has made this happen throughout her career. She applies her strong organization skills, ability to manage multiple responsibilities, and positive attitude to all assignments she undertakes. Her dependability, strong work ethic, and professionalism make her an asset to any organization.

In addition, she is an administrator for a foundation that rewards young writers with cash prizes. She is involved in her local community with the library, church, and the American Legion Auxiliary -- currently serving as unit secretary and chairperson of local Legion fundraising events.

Carole Soh
Director Representing Pacific Rim

Carole Soh admires people who, against all odds, overcome obstacles to be the best they can be in their chosen fields.

With just a little bit of searching, Carole said, we find that "They are the most common people we can find around us."

Carole, who lives in Kuala Lumpur, is a manager for a company in the Pacific Rim. She is responsible for ensuring that project team members are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver quality projects. She also makes sure they actually deliver those quality projects.

"I chose my career and service with APS," Carole said, "because I have a strong belief that we have to have a productive life and experiences add value to it. If, through APS, I can share a bit of my experience and wisdom, I will add value for our members."

Like many colleagues in the productivity profession, Carole is an avid reader. "I like thriller/mystery/adventure books," she said. "For movies, I prefer to watch comedy, and supernatural movies that scare the daylights out of me."

Carole brings to APS a wealth of experience gained from 20 years in the industry. Her experience includes 10 years as a Skills Specialist, Project Director, Project Support Specialist and Internal Trainer, five years as a manager of a business school offering post-graduate courses and about five years experience offering secretarial and legal services to corporate clients. She holds a Masters degree in Business Administration and was a member of the professional body, the Institute of Chartered Secretaries & Administrators.  Carole has also achieved the recognition of a certified Master Productivity Specialist.

Her friends call Carole dependable and a hard taskmaster. Among the best advice she ever received: From Buddha - Always take the middle path.

When facing new obstacles, Carole is cautious, but willing to take risks on occasion. "I find I can let go a bit more," Carole said. "It is all right to take a chance and be wrong, as long as we learn from the experience."

Ivan Kovacic
Director Representing Europe

Ivan's favorite composer is Mozart and admires all self-made people.

"Chances will always pass by," Ivan said. "Success is a matter of taking those chances."