This was a move for you and your family; what brought this on?

It was a bit unexpected. Gay Williams announced her retirement, and Don Hall, with the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association, brought it to my attention and encouraged me to consider applying for the position.

I have worked closely with Don for many years, so I felt well-prepared, and I was excited at the prospect of making a contribution to this association. Don is a friend, a mentor, and definitely someone to emulate.
I spoke with my wife, Felicia, and we thought it was a good time in our lives for a new adventure. Virginia and Kentucky are neighbors, and while we still have family in Virginia, it’s only an eight-hour drive away. So, we packed up the dogs, and here we are.

How are you adjusting to Kentucky?

I love it. We’re working on becoming Kentuckians.

What are your thoughts about and plans for KADA?

The long-term is to be one of the leading associations in the country. I want to model Virginia. I’m very proud of the work I was able to help accomplish with them. KADA may not be the biggest association, but our voice will be heard. We will be out front on the issues that affect our industry.

After about 100 days on the job, what’s the KADA path for 2021?

Well, within one week of starting the job, I was jumping right into the legislative session. I was active with our lobbyists, Tom and Ryan Underwood, which were extremely helpful and as COVID restrictions lessened, I was meeting with our dealers. It was important for me to hit the ground running.

My goal is to be very engaged in the legislative process. I think that is where we, as an organization, can make the most impact on our industry, for our dealers, and the consumers the industry serves.

We’re identifying and solidifying our partner relationships. We have three new relationships: MOC Mid-Atlantic, ACV Auctions , and Dealer Merchant Services, so far. When our dealers engage with our partners, it’s so beneficial for everyone. It helps us do what we do and keep our dues low.

We’ve been focused on our upcoming convention, and I am very excited – it’s almost sold out. The support we’ve had has been amazing.

I think it’s a matter of focusing on the next right thing for the dealers, the association, and the consumers; and success will come.