CEO Arrivals

Kavadi named leader of radiation oncology group

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) announced Vivek S. Kavadi will succeed Laura Thevenot as CEO of the $24M-revenue organization, effective Nov. 1. Thevenot announced her intent to retire from ASTRO earlier this year, following 22 years at the helm. 

“The appointment of a physician from our specialty with first-hand experience of the challenges that practicing physicians face each day marks an important milestone for ASTRO. Vivek’s deep understanding of the field, as well as his operational and business acumen, makes him an ideal fit for our Society,” said Jeff M. Michalski, chair of the ASTRO Board of Directors. 

Kavadi is currently chief radiation oncology officer for The US Oncology Network, where he has worked since 2020. Earlier in his career, he spent 25 years at Texas Oncology, where he was regional medical director. He is also vice chair of the Health Policy Council on the ASTRO Board of Directors.

He has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Rice University, an MBA from The Wharton School, and a doctorate degree from Harvard Medical School.

Korn Ferry assisted in the search. 

Chammoun chosen to lead peanut shellers

The $3.7M-revenue American Peanut Shellers Association has appointed Chris Chammoun as its next executive director. Additionally, he will serve as president of The Peanut Institute and The Peanut Institute Foundation.

“(Chris’) education and background in agribusiness and markets, along with his economic development experience provide the prefect blend in leading both American Peanut Shellers Association and The Peanut Institute into the future. I think Chris is going to do a terrific job and be a valuable asset not only for the membership of American Peanut Shellers Association but for the entire peanut industry,” said Charles Birdsong, APSA Board Chair.

Chammoun has spent the past seven years at the Georgia Department of Economic Development, most recently as director of AgTech at the Georgia Center of Innovation. Previously, he was director of public affairs for the Georgia Cotton Commission. 

He has a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree in agricultural economics from Texas A&M University.

Vetted Solutions assisted in the search. 

Wilbur takes the helm at trade associations 

The North American Building Material Distribution Association ($1.1M-revenue) and North American Association of Floor Covering Distributors ($1.1M-revenue) announced Michael Wilbur has succeeded longtime leader Kevin Gammonley as executive director of both groups. The two groups are managed by association management company Smithbucklin and host annual conventions together. 

Wilbur was most recently vice president of engagement at AUVSI — Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, where he spent nearly eight years. Earlier in his career, he was membership manager for the Smart Electric Power Alliance and manager or membership for the Electric Drive Transportation Association.

He has a bachelor’s degree in government from William & Mary.

Staff Arrivals

National Association of Manufacturers — Chris Phalen has joined $64M-revenue NAM as vice president of domestic policy. He was most recently a senior policy advisor to Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.). Earlier in his career he was research and member engagement manager for US SIF: The Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment.