When I reflect on my career trajectory and the evolving role of trade associations in today's landscape, one thing is clear: We are at a pivotal moment. ASAEForesightWorks shows that public trust in institutions is waning, and consumers are more informed — and more skeptical — than ever before. That’s why I believe so strongly in the power of proactive, independent industry self-regulation as a vehicle not just for compliance but for real, lasting impact.
Before joining BBB National Programs, I spent over two decades at the Direct Selling Association (DSA), most recently serving as vice president of membership. DSA members sell products person-to-person with a field salesforce of independent contractors. During that time, I had the privilege to be a part of the launch of one of the initiatives I’m most proud of: the Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC). We partnered with BBB National Programs in 2019 to address misleading earnings and product claims in the direct selling space — a growing concern that required thoughtful, industry-led oversight.
Fast-forward to today, and I’m now serving as vice president of national partners and business development at BBB National Programs. My focus is on expanding our network of national partners and developing new, robust self-regulation programs for associations across a wide range of industries. It’s a natural evolution of the work I began at DSA and an exciting opportunity to scale the impact we’ve already seen.
Please select this link to read the complete article from ASAE’s Center for Association Leadership.