U.S. Postal Service Names Mailing and Shipping Services President

The man who grew the U.S. Postal Service's international shipping business to annual sales of more than $2 billion was named president of the department most responsible for revenue generation.

Postmaster General John Potter today announced the appointment of Paul Vogel as president, Mailing and Shipping Services, effective Aug. 16.

As president, Vogel will be responsible for all product management, product development, retail and commercial products and services, as well as commercial sales. The department is responsible for more than $65 billion in annual revenue.

Vogel's business background and accomplishments have resulted in savings of tens of millions of dollars for the Postal Service, simplified product offerings for customer convenience and increased revenue, and creating some of the most durable business partnerships. Highlights include:

First Postal Service agreements with FedEx and UPS, leveraging their air networks to increase Postal efficiency and improving service. Helping to de-regulate international air contracts, creating a more competitive contract environment that saved the Postal Service $50 million annually. Consolidating all international operations into a distinct business unit, creating a profit center system for Global Business that was the model for other Postal Service departments. Simplifying international product offerings to eliminate customer confusion and create a more seamless delivery system. Potter appointed Vogel managing director of Global Business and Senior Vice President for the Postal Service in 2006, charging him with creating and leading the new department. For the next three years, Vogel focused on international business management, global network strategy and technology, international relations and international operations, including the Postal Service's five International Service Centers.

During his tenure, Vogel streamlined operations and helped mailers expand their international reach through customized, flexible international shipping solutions, increasing the Postal Service's annual share of the international shipping market at the same time. Revenue increased from $1.7 billion in 2006 to $2.3 billion two years later.

Vogel began his career with the Postal Service in 1969 as a clerk/carrier in Boston and has held numerous management positions in operations and logistics. Vogel earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics from Boston State College and a Master of Science degree in business management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sloan Fellows Program.

Vogel replaces Susan Plonkey, who was named acting president in June. Potter thanked Plonkey for her service. Vogel retired from the Postal Service in January 2009 and joined the private sector as a director with Deloitte LLP, a company specializing in audit, financial advisory, tax and consulting. Vogel notified Deloitte of his decision today.