“After a great deal of reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to let the next generation take the reins,” said Hanvey. “I am extremely proud of what our team has accomplished and of the service we’ve provided to this industry. It’s been the honor of my career to lead this association, and I know it’s in a stronger position today because of the people who make it up. While I have announced my retirement, my work is far from finished. Over the coming months, I will continue fighting every day for our members and this industry, including tirelessly pursuing passage of Dr. Dunn’s REPAIR Act to protect vehicle owners and independent repair shops across America.”  

Hanvey has served as president and CEO of the Auto Care Association since December 2015, capping a career of more than 40 years in the automotive aftermarket industry. During his tenure, the association achieved a number of milestones on behalf of its members, including:

• Guiding the industry through COVID-19 — successfully navigating the association and its members through the pandemic, including securing the industry’s designation as an essential service at the local and federal level so members could continue operating.
• Advancing Right to Repair — leading passage of Right to Repair legislation in Massachusetts and Maine, while pushing the federal REPAIR Act further through Congress than it has ever advanced before.
• Expanding industry data resources — launching and growing TrendLens™ and its Demand Index tool, giving members unprecedented access to point-of-sale and market data to make better business decisions.
• Building Associations in Motion — establishing the international program to strengthen collaboration and shared learning across the global aftermarket association community.
• Fostering the next generation of leaders – from advocating for the industry’s under-40 group to dedicating time at Northwood University seminars, his commitment to strengthening the career pipeline of the aftermarket has ensured the next generation of leadership for the auto care industry.
• Staying true to the industry’s roots — earning a reputation as a leader who never forgot where he came from, remaining an approachable, hands-on advocate for members throughout his tenure.

“On behalf of our members and the board of directors, I want to thank Bill for the extraordinary impact he has had on this industry,” said Greg Noethlich, chair, Auto Care Association Board of Directors. “His leadership has left this association stronger, more data-driven and better positioned for the future, and we are deeply grateful for his years of service.”

To ensure a smooth transition, the board of directors has engaged Korn Ferry, a global executive search firm, to lead the search for the association’s next president and CEO.

“We are committed to finding the best possible candidate to lead this association forward for our members and the industry,” said Noethlich. “Partnering with Korn Ferry reflects the seriousness with which we approach this transition and our confidence in the strength of the organization Bill leaves behind.”

Hanvey will continue to lead the Auto Care Association through the transition period, working closely with the board to ensure continuity of operations and a seamless handoff to his successor.

The association said that additional details regarding the transition timeline and search process will be shared with members and staff as they become available.

To learn more about Hanvey’s career in the aftermarket, visit the Auto Care Association website.