ARLINGTON, Va. — The American Trucking Associations (ATA) will bring back a former association executive to replace outgoing president and CEO Bill Graves.

Chris Spear, who was previously ATA senior vice-president of legislative affairs and currently vice-president of government affairs with Hyundai Motor Company, has been named the association’s ninth president. Graves is retiring after more than 13 years with the association.

The ATA said Spear has previous successes with the association in developing and advancing its strategic advocacy agenda.

“Chris’ enthusiasm for the trucking industry and the mission of ATA – to effectively advocate and communicate efforts that improve safety and profitability for our members – is second to none,” said ATA Chairman Pat Thomas, senior vice-president of state government affairs at UPS. “We had many excellent candidates for the position, but Spear is the right fit for the organization. We are extremely pleased that he will be joining us.”

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead this great association and serve this vital industry,” added Spear. “Trucking is the backbone of our economy and a catalyst for American job growth, delivering critical goods to businesses and homes coast-to-coast. I am excited to work alongside ATA’s members and federation partners to ensure the industry continues to prosper and safely move our nation forward.”