Railroad group's top lobbyist tapped to succeed Ed Hamberger, who held position for two decades

Jefferies

The Association of American Railroads announced Tuesday that its top lobbyist will succeed CEO Ed Hamberger once he ends his two-decade career at the group at the end of the year.

Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ian Jefferies has been named CEO of the $60 million-revenue AAR. He will transition to his new role Jan. 1, following the Hamberger's retirement. Hamberger has led the association since 1998.

"For years, we have known that Ian understands both the policy and priorities of the rail industry, and he has been a proven advocate for our issues," Jim Squires, chair of AAR board of directors said in a statement. "Ian will extend a legacy of vision, leadership and energy to write an exciting new chapter for the AAR while ensuring that it remains a clear and trusted voice in Washington."

Jefferies joined AAR in 2013. He previously was senior policy advisor to former Sen. John Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) during his chairmanship of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. Before that, Jefferies was a senior analyst at the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

He has a master's degree in public policy and management from Carnegie Mellon University.

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