RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC — Theresa Spera has been promoted to director of marketing and member services for the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the aftermarket segment association of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA).

“Theresa is a highly valued member of the AASA team,” said Steve Handschuh, president and chief operating officer of AASA. “I know that she will do an excellent job in serving the needs of our members and raising industry awareness of AASA programs and services.”

In her new role, Spera will be responsible for process development and strategic planning for the Marketing Executives Council, Fuel Pump Manufacturers Council and will represent AASA on the MEMA Human Resources Council. Her duties will include management of overall marketing strategy and sponsorship opportunities for AASA.

Spera also will work closely with the joint operating committee of the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), the annual trade show representing the $250 billion North American retail and service aftermarket. AASA and MEMA co-sponsor AAPEX with the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

Spera joined AASA in September 2004 as manager, member services. In her previous position she worked to develop new programs and services to existing members.

Her experience prior to joining AASA includes serving as manager of marketing and client services for a business consulting and market analysis organization. A Michigan native, Spera is a graduate of Aquinas College, Grand Rapids, MI, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications with a concentration in marketing and public relations.

For more information about AASA, go to: http://www.aftermarketsuppliers.org.