AIA Canada officially on hunt for new leader

While J.F. Champagne announced in March that we would be stepping down as the long-time president and CEO of the Automotive Industries Association of Canada, the organization has now posted the position in search of his successor.

It was at the AIA Canada national conference in the spring that Champagne announced the leadership transition would be forthcoming.

“Through 2025 and into 2026, I’m going to be working with the board of directors to seek, onboard, attract and set up for success the next president and CEO of AIA Canada,” Champagne told attendees.

Emphasizing continuity, Champagne was clear he’s “not going anywhere” immediately. He plans to remain actively involved through part of 2026, ensuring a smooth handover of leadership responsibilities.

The posting for the position is now live. It notes the importance of the association and the role it plays in the country’s collision, aftermarket and mechanical sectors. The candidate will be responsible for AIA Canada’s leadership by “sustaining a positive public awareness of the auto care industry, recommend strategic direction to the board, and safeguard lasting and constructive relationships with government, industry, and a variety of member groups.”

The role means being the face of the organization, representing its brand and mandates, while being a trusted industry partner. The group is looking for someone in the Montreal-Ottawa-Toronto corridor. The ability to speak English and French is considered a great asset.

Reflecting on his nearly decade-long tenure during the conference, Champagne highlighted the organization’s growth, saying they’ve “gained great momentum in our growth, our presence, our recognitions” and have “built a great footprint” across industry, government and public spheres.

“We don’t want to lose that momentum,” he stressed, explaining why a careful succession strategy is critical.

The leadership change is expected to be finalized in mid-2026.

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