BOWIE, Md.—The Tire Industry Association is looking for its next leader as longtime CEO Roy Littlefield plans to retire later this year, capping a 50-plus-year career in the tire and automotive service industries.
In a statement issued Aug. 9, TIA said a search is under way "for a dynamic leader in a rapidly changing business environment to head the organization's work in tire technician training, government affairs and improving the overall environment for its tire dealer and tire industry members."
The CEO will have executive management responsibility for the operations of the organization and report to the TIA board of directors. The organization seeks an individual to "lead a dedicated staff to carry out TIA's mission of promoting tire safety through training and education, supporting the tire industry through government affairs advocacy and enhancing the image and professionalism of the industry for the betterment of TIA's members."
Littlefield was unavailable for immediate comment; TIA did not provide additional details.
Littlefield was named TIA's executive vice president in January 2003, a year after TIA was created by the merger of the Tire Association of North America (successor of the National Tire Dealers & Retreaders Association—NTDRA) and the International Tire & Rubber Association (successor of the American Retreaders' Association—ARA).
Littlefield's career in the tire industry began in 1979 as director of government affairs at the NTDRA. In 1984, he joined the ARA as a part-time director of government affairs. That year he also became executive director of the Washington/Maryland Service Station and Automotive Repair Association.
In 1994, he became executive vice president of the Service Station Dealers of America and Allied Trades.
Today, TIA has more than 13,000 members.
The new CEO will be a non-voting member of and liaison to the executive committee of the board of directors and will be the director of the TIA Foundation Board, TIA said.
"This individual will be responsible for the administration and management functions as well as the fiscal health and soundness of the association, in close partnership with the board of directors."
The CEO will serve as the face of the organization, establishing working relationships with federal, state and local legislators on industry-related issues and with the trade press, speaking at industry conferences and meeting with tire manufacturer executives and suppliers to keep TIA's name prominent in the industry.
TIA said the ideal candidate will have:
- a bachelor's degree and a minimum of 10 years management experience;
- tire industry experience;
- demonstrated leadership in operations and program management;
- familiarity with government affairs on the state and federal levels;
- excellent writing, speaking and organizational skills;
- financial reporting experience;
- good problem-solving skills and a creative approach to new ideas.
Association experience is preferred, TIA noted.
To apply, e-mail resume, cover letter and salary requirements to [email protected] by Aug. 30.
