Exit Interview: Bob Benedict, CAE
By Katherine Schaefer Late last year, Bob Benedict, CAE, headed back to his home state to lead the Florida Swimming Pool Association, leaving behind the National Pawnbrokers Association, where he served two terms as executive director.
Read MorePrimed to Lead: Paul L. Parsons, CAE, 40
It was the trifecta of energy, experience and education that eventually landed Paul L. Parsons the director of finance and administration position at the National Association of College and University Attorneys. But it was his ability to master the strategic planning and operational areas, his capacity to interact externally, and his talent
Read MoreThe Disappearing No. 2 Job
The chief operating officer, once the eyes and ears for a CEO, is disappearing from many associations, a casualty of reorganization efforts and churn at the top of industry groups. And many leaders believe their organizations are better without them. At the top, a tier of senior management in specialized positions have replaced the role of the COO. And more often, its not uncommon to hear of a chief economist, a vice president of government relations, or a general counsel among the team of executive vice presidents who all report directly to the CEO.
Read MoreWater Works Assn Says Merger with WEF Premature
The Water Environment Federation approved a resolution to explore a possible merger with the American Water Works Association, on January 19, but AWWAs board rejected it the next day. Terry Rolan, the president of the Denver, Colo.-based AWWA cited the proposal as premature and called for a need to achieve a more coordinated voice in the water community, in a prepared statement.
Read MoreAHP Bill Loses Traction in the House
Small business and industry groups say theyll seek more common ground with Democrats to pass a bill that would allow trade associations and professional groups to offer health insurance plans to members. House Democrats have rejected efforts to force a vote on the plans. Under a Republican-led Chamber, AHPs repeatedly succeeded in the House but failed to pick up enough Senate votes. Supporters of the bill say theyll go back to the drawing board to work on legislation that Democrats can also support.
Read MoreExit Interview: Jula Kinnaird
After 70 years lobbying for agriculture policy, the National Grain Trade Council was a fixture on Capitol Hill, particularly when a new farm bill was up for discussion. But last year the association embarked on an ambitious expansion plan that would take the small group beyond grain and into the realm of other commodities and energy.
Read More