The NIADA Leadership Meeting, held in Dallas Monday and Tuesday, brought together state executive directors, staff and board presidents for two days of training, networking and exchanging ideas.
The training event included general sessions, group exercises, breakout education sessions and roundtable discussions.
“We had a great response from the executives and the state presidents. It shows how we can partner together to build a stronger industry,” said Don Griffin, NIADA President.
The NIADA Board of Directors presented the association’s five-year strategic plan to the group of leaders. The overarching goal for the next five years is:
- Growing education and resources for dealers
- Expanding advocacy efforts
- Increasing membership
- Improving communications
- Strengthening the financial foundation
“The plan is not about national, but a partnership to help move the industry forward,” Griffin said.
The breakout sessions included information on advocacy efforts, holding board meetings, budgeting, planning for events, member engagement, filing financial documents and using association management software.
Interim Florida IADA Executive Director Ashley Spanos said it was helpful to learn about the resources available and network with the other AECs.
Lowell Applebaum of Vista Cova led a general session workshop with the association leaders on roles of management and governance. The two-part sessions included real-life scenarios.
Aaron Stanton, Executive Director of the Indiana IADA, said Applebaum’s session helped him and his board define their roles.
“It gave me a new lens and frame to plan for a path forward,” Stanton said.
Indiana IADA President Travis Baldwin, owner of Best Deal Auto Sales, agreed it was helpful for the executive director and president to experience the training together. He also said it was beneficial to engage with other national and state association members.
“We got to see what works best for them,” Baldwin said.
Russell Moore of Top Notch Used Cars in Conroe, Texas, is the President-elect for the Texas IADA. Moore said the training will help him and the association’s new Executive Director Trevor Jennings grow.
“Some of the education was really eye-opening for him and me,” Moore said. “This gives us some time to reflect and learn what not to do as much as what to do. It helps us to stay in our lane as leaders.”
