BETHESDA, MD — The board of directors of the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (AMRA) has announced the retirement of Executive Director and President Larry Hecker. Hecker will step down effective June 30, 2008, after 14 years with the association. Hecker will also be retiring from his leadership post at the Motorist Assurance Program (MAP), a subsidiary of AMRA, at the same time.
AMRA and MAP have been instrumental in developing communication standards and best business practices which are followed by all members of AMRA and their MAP participating automotive service facilities. Since the organization was founded in 1994, Hecker, working closely with state regulators and consumer advocacy groups, has led AMRA and MAP in efforts to improve relations with automotive repair customers and regulators through the establishment of consistent explanations regarding vehicle repair needs and recommendations.
"Larry has provided strategic direction and focus on the core goals of both AMRA and MAP. The aftermarket repair industry has gained increased respectability among consumers as a result of his efforts," said Jack Fischbein, board chairman of AMRA.
Charlie Ayers, chairman of MAP, added, "Larry’s involvement with consumer advocacy groups and state regulators has brought about many positive changes in the vehicle repair aftermarket. Our expectation is that the next leader of our organizations will continue to follow those same objectives."
AMRA’s membership includes many national and regional vehicle repair service providers, such as All Tune and Lube, Firestone, Goodyear, Jiffy Lube, Just Brakes, Meineke, Midas, Monro, Pep Boys, Sears, Strauss Discount Auto and Tire Kingdom. There are also a number of independent service provider members. At present, MAP participating facilities total more than 8,300 locations and represent in excess of 105,000 service bays. In addition to the auto service providers, membership includes parts and equipment manufacturers, service suppliers, data management companies, education and training organizations and state consumer affairs personnel.
The boards of AMRA and MAP have formed a unified transition search committee to begin the process of seeking candidates to replace Hecker. The committee will be seeking individuals with experience and skills in the following three areas: (1) government/public affairs and the regulatory environment, (2) automotive aftermarket industry, and (3) association management.
Candidates wishing more information about the search process, or to apply for consideration for the position, may email the Transition Committee Chairperson Dave Baier at [email protected].
For more information about AMRA or MAP, visit: www.motorist.org.
