Arlington, VA – The American Trucking Associations has named Chris Spear as its next president and CEO. Spear will succeed Bill Graves, who is retiring after almost 14 years. Spear is scheduled to assume the post July 9.

Most recently, Spear has served as vice president of government affairs at Hyundai Motor Co. Before joining Hyundai, he worked for ATA as senior vice president of legislative affairs from 2014 through 2015. He also served as assistant secretary of labor from 2001 to 2004 during President George W. Bush’s administration.

During his previous tenure with ATA, Spear helped develop and promote ATA’s lobbying efforts in Washington. In a press release, ATA leaders said Spear advanced a “pro-trucking, pro-safety and pro-efficiency agenda” for the organization.

“Chris’ enthusiasm for the trucking industry and the mission of ATA – to effectively advocate and communicate efforts that improve safety and profitability for our members – is second to none,” ATA Chairman Pat Thomas said in the release.

Source: safetyandhealthmagazine.com