A lot of laundry has passed through the hundreds of plants that have benefited from Bill Mann’s expertise since he entered the industry as a teen-age “bundle boy” in September 1958. Now after a 62-year career in the laundry industry and a key post as director of industry affairs for TRSA, Mann will retire next month after the April 21-22 TRSA HR, Health and Safety Summit, according to a news release.
Noting that he wants to spend more time with family, including his wife Charlene and their children and grandchildren, Mann is stepping away from a part-time role he’s continued as liaison to the TRSA Safety Committee, serving as an inspector for TRSA’s Hygienically Clean certification program and guiding the production of the Laundry Operations and Management manual published in 2017. Mann’s latest move comes eight years after his “official” retirement in 2013, following a nine-year stint as TRSA’s director of industry affairs.
“I’ve always said, ‘If you’re going to do a job for someone, do it right,’” he said. “I feel now is the right time to step back from the industry,”
TRSA President and CEO Joseph Ricci praised Mann’s many contributions to TRSA and the linen, uniform and facility services industry. “Bill has given so much to the industry and TRSA through our educational programs, Hygienically Clean certification, the Safety Committee, advising individual members and so much more,” Ricci said. “He will leave a huge space to fill. But we understand he’s ready to retire. Soon, Bill will have a chance to reflect on his many accomplishments during an outstanding career.”
Before joining TRSA, Mann had an outstanding career in the laundry industry, beginning with the laundry and dry-cleaning business of Mary McIntosh Services, York, PA. After starting part-time in the wash aisle while still in high school, Mann learned quickly. Within 12 years he had advanced to general manager for Mary McIntosh. During this period, he also completed a bachelor’s degree in business administration at York College.
Mann later entered the supplier partner ranks, serving as a chemical sales representative for BASF Corp. and later UNX Chemicals Inc. Mann also attained a certificate in accounting to buttress his management skills.
Mann was active in community affairs as well over many years. He served as president of the Spring Creek Lions Club, Macungie, PA; and he played a key role in the founding of a bowling league for developmentally disabled children and adults.
