The First Word: Thanks For Your Patience

Earlier this year, I announced a major headquarters’ staff reorganization to provide more and better resources to accomplish the many goals and objectives of the association. In addition to the reorganization, we upgraded and expanded our membership database software, migrated to new accounting software, implemented new internal processes and procedures, and recommitted our team to a culture of member service.

During all of this, NAFA debuted its Sustainable Fleet Standard Program, scrutinized the entire Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) program, and developed an international strategic plan. We also conducted a very successful annual conference (Institute & Expo) in Minneapolis, met with government officials on several occasions, had two board meetings and seminars, assisted nearly a dozen chapters in their administrative functions, continued to produce our valuable print and e-publications, and administered nearly 350 CAFM exams.

In short, you would not be wrong if you said NAFA has nearly completely rebuilt itself over the past nine months, while still maintaining the valuable programs you need. I am sure you will like the final products of all of these efforts, the fruits of which are beginning to show now.

For instance, with our new membership database, you will experience better service from any and all of the staff, as we all have immediate and direct access to the entire database, which now houses all the information each of you has provided us. The database will also streamline all of your interactions with NAFA, from easier member look-up to real-time validation of your membership status when registering for an event or purchasing a product.

The Chapter Assistance Program has helped many chapters find speakers, secure meeting locations, and market their events, all of which is resulting in better meetings that are well-attended.

We listened to you about how to make the I&E even better next year. When we meet in Orlando April 14-17, 2015, you can expect a new daily schedule of events featuring the Expo in the morning, immediately after the Keynote Addresses. The Keynote Addresses will take place directly adjacent to the Expo floor, and you will enter and exit the Keynote Address through the Expo. Food and beverage stations will be available throughout the Expo, which will be followed by blocks of concurrent sessions each day. This new schedule not only optimizes classroom time, but increases networking time, delivering exactly what you asked for.

There is still more to do to make this transition complete. We aren’t completely finished smoothing out all the bumps. However, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your patience during this time of transition.

Organizational change – just like personal change – is difficult and time-consuming. It takes determination, perseverance, grit, and a faithful and passionate belief in the desired end result. Even more, changing an organization takes great people who are committed to the cause. NAFA has those great people on the Board of Trustees, here at headquarters, and as leaders of our local chapters and national committees. I want to thank all of them, too, for their work over the last few months.

This is truly an exciting time to be involved with and working for NAFA. I thank you for the support!

The best is yet to come!

Sincerely,

Phil

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