SEMA hires D.C. trade group veteran to lead public, government affairs

DIAMOND BAR, Calif.—The Specialty Equipment Market Association has hired Karen Bailey-Chapman, a trade-industry government affairs veteran, to become its senior vice president, public and government affair, a new position

In her new position, Bailey-Chapman will be oversee all government affairs efforts for SEMA and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI), a SEMA subsidiary dedicated to the motorsports market. She will lead programs related to legislation, regulations and government policies on issues affecting climate change, consumer choice, business opportunities, etc.

"As the automotive aftermarket is increasingly impacted and threatened by government actions, it is critical that SEMA continues to represent and protect the industry in Washington, D.C.," SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola said, adding that SEMA created the position to strengthen and grow the industry's legislative and advocacy program.

"Karen will be instrumental in raising visibility of the specialty-equipment market. She is a highly experienced legislative strategist who will elevate SEMA's advocacy efforts."

SEMA represents the $51 billion specialty-automotive industry.

Bailey-Chapman has experience in local, state, federal and global government affairs and advocacy campaigns. Most recently, Bailey-Chapman was senior vice president of external affairs for the American Beverage Association. Previous experience includes senior roles with casino company Penn National Gaming and the D.C.-based public affairs firm DCI Group.

The new senior-level role is the most recent expansion of SEMA's legislative program. Baily-Chapman will be based in SEMA's office in Washington.

SEMA recently introduced an individual membership program designed to strengthen its political action committee, and last month the association hosted the SEMA DC Rally – a two-day fly-in event consisting of about 100 in-person meetings on the Hill.