BETHESDA, Md. — The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) vice president of meetings, Michael Barratt, CMP, has been promoted to the position of senior vice president, meetings and events. A native of Shelburne, Mass., Barratt has been with AAIA, and previously with the Automotive Parts and Accessories Association (APAA), for a combined 14 years.
In his new role, Barratt will oversee all meetings, conferences and trade shows for AAIA and its segments, committees and managed associations, including: Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW), Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), Automotive Communication Council (ACC), Aftermarket eForum and Car Care Council Women’s Board. His responsibilities include meeting planning, site selection, contract negotiation and on-site logistics.
Prior to joining AAIA, Barratt worked in the meetings department for the National Association of Community Health Centers, the American Forests organization and the National Recycling Coalition. He is an active member of the Corporate Social Responsibility Task Force (Network for the Needy) of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).
Barratt received his bachelor’s of science degree in hotel and food administration from Boston University and earned the professional designation of Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) in 2003 from the Convention Industry Council.
"AAIA has an established reputation for hosting world-class meetings, conferences and events, a direct result of the skills and expertise of Michael Barratt," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. "His experience and skills, attention to detail and understanding of the hospitality industry ensure that his team produces seamlessly executed events with the utmost style and professionalism."
