The American Recovery Association previously stated that the organization’s next executive director would have to possess eight distinct characteristics, including industry experience, public speaking ability and more.

The ARA found its next professional leader, announcing well-known industry figure Tony Long as its new executive director on Thursday. According to a news release, Long will start with the association on Monday, just in time for the North American Repossessors Summit 2024 initial planning meeting.

“ARA’s selection of Tony Long is the result of a nationwide search conducted by an incredible search committee with the assistance of a national recruiting firm based in Dallas,” ARA president Vaughn Clemmons said in the news release. “While the competition was fierce, we are extremely pleased with the results and eagerly anticipate Tony’s leadership and wealth of experience to help take ARA to the next level.”

ARA filled the position previously held by Joel Kennedy, who succeeded Les McCook, the executive director of the organization for almost 16 years.

As a veteran of the auto auction industry, Long spent nearly 20 years of his early career managing commercial accounts and becoming the general manager of his family’s wholesale auto auction.

After a successful four-year period of establishing dealer partnerships for a major subprime auto finance company, Long became the executive director of the International Automotive Remarketers Alliance. During a near decade-long tenure, that association experienced record growth in membership, conference attendance, and capital assets.

Long is also the former president of both the Southern Auto Auction Association and the National Auto Auction Association. He was the first president of the Warren Young Scholastic Foundation and was named a WYSF Fellow by the NAAA.

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association also named him to its prestigious Ring of Honor, the organization’s highest recognition presented to a non-dealer industry member.

“I am honored to join the dynamic team at ARA,” Long said. “I look forward to building upon ARA’s years of exceptional leadership and it’s remarkable legacy — leading the association forward in growth, strategic partnerships, and more offerings for its members.”

Long also posted an online video about coming aboard that ARA shared on Thursday afternoon. It’s available below.