Princeton, N.J. — NAFA Fleet Management Association announced Bill Schankel, CAE, as its new chief executive officer.

          Schankel has served as NAFA’s interim CEO since August 2019. He joined the organization in September 2017 as NAFA’s chief of staff and operations.

          The selection of Schankel caps an extensive search process facilitated by JDG Associates, a nationwide executive search firm, which specializes in placing association executives who will achieve immediate and long-term goals. The process started with a large initial prospect pool, which was narrowed by stages to a group who interviewed with NAFA’s executive search committee, and then to a final round who met with board of directors’ leadership.

          “NAFA’s board of directors conducted an exhaustive search to fill the CEO position and interviewed many highly qualified candidates,” said NAFA President Patti Earley, CAFM. “It was our determination that Bill not only exemplified the qualities we were searching for, but also understood the unique challenges of moving our association forward during times of uncertainty. His commitment to action-based and results-based strategies assures that NAFA will continue to lead the way for the fleet and mobility industry.”

          Schankel has had oversight in NAFA initiatives, such as moving the Certified Automotive Fleet Manager Program and Exams online, spearheading a refresh of the education materials to reflect recent innovations in fleet to better serve members and leading staff and member leaders in expanding NAFA’s reach and value to the fleet industry.

          Prior to joining NAFA, Schankel spent the last 20 years in roles leading associations, most recently as executive director for the Association of Information Technology Professionals and the America Mosquito Control Association. Previously, Schankel has been responsible for strategic direction, operations, event management and income development for associations including the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers, New Jersey State Bar Association and the National Kitchen & Bath Association.