Replaces Kathleen Blouin, Who Stepped Down From The Post June 30

The NBAA has named Chris Strong, the association’s senior vice president, marketing and member services, as its senior vice president, conventions and membership, effective July 1.

Strong’s (pictured) new responsibilities were formerly held by Kathleen Blouin, who stepped down from her position as NBAA senior vice president, conventions and forums, on June 30.

“Since Chris joined NBAA five years ago, he has not only been successful at building membership to a new, all-time high, but has also been instrumental in priority areas for the Association, like brand awareness and customer service,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “He’s a proven leader with a passion for innovation and excellence, and I’m confident that he is the right person to take on this leadership role.”

Strong thanked Bolen, and said: “Kathleen Blouin built a remarkable convention team at NBAA, and I’m honored to have an opportunity to step into this role and work with such an outstanding group of professionals to contribute to the continued success of NBAA’s conventions.”

Strong has led NBAA’s Membership programs since January 2009, increasing its Member ranks by 25 percent, from about 8,000 companies to more than 10,000 by 2014 – growth that occurred during several years that were marked by a challenging economy. He launched a new initiative focused on service excellence for NBAA Members, which includes a mechanism for Members to provide feedback about the quality of NBAA service with every interaction. He was also involved in the formation of a Leadership Council of NBAA Member Companies, to provide a means for increased engagement in the Association’s work to represent the industry’s interests – the council today includes more than 120 active participants.

“A successful association is characterized by an active, growing Membership,” Bolen continued. “Chris’s accomplishments in this area have allowed NBAA to represent more of the business aviation community in Washington and have also strengthened our Members’ ties to the Association and their understanding of its value. I am confident he will bring the same dedication to his new role with the Association.”

Strong has more than two decades of experience in trade association leadership. Before coming to NBAA, he served as director of business operations for the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), where he was responsible for the association's membership, trade show and non-dues revenue. Prior to his service at SGMA, Strong served in various leadership roles at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). His work in his positions at NAM included strategic planning, database marketing, direct-response marketing and member-relationship management.

Strong holds a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and a Master’s of Business Administration from the University of Baltimore, and he is a member of the American Society of Association Executives.

(Image provided by NBAA)

FMI: www.nbaa.org