By Tom Davis
Ottawa, Ontario — December 7, 2017 — France Daviault, the new Vice-President of the Automotive Industries Association (AIA) of Canada, will focus on bringing the collision repair industry to the forefront of the association, as well as working on programs to “enhance member value” to all sectors of the industry.
“I want to break down some of the longstanding silos that exist within AIA Canada,” Daviault told Collision Repair magazine. “We are looking to work smarter and more efficiently, while bringing the collision repair industry to the forefront of the association and give those working in the sector the same service that our mechanic members receive.”
Effective immediately, Daviault will be overseeing the development of the association’s strategic plan, ensuring efficient and successful implementation of all operational plans for membership, events, communications, research, as well as identifying future member programs and services.
Part of her ambition in the role also includes improving the AIA Canada’s relationship with the government. “We want to make bigger waves at the federal and provincial levels of government,” Daviault explained. “A better relationship with the government will help us to create a dialogue for the collision repair sector and any issues it is facing.”
Having worked with the association since 2014, Daviault is looking forward to her new role. She commented: “I’m very pleased with the appointment and it’s something that I’ve certainly been working towards as part of my career development. I feel privileged to be working in this new role. It’s such an exciting time for the industry and I’m looking forward to the many changes that will be taking place in the repair sector.”
AIA Canada said the new organizational structure will allow Jean-Francois Champagne, President of AIA Canada, to increase his engagement with members, focus on strengthening the automotive aftermarket’s presence with government and decision makers on the right to repair, and expand AIA Canada’s reach in the changing automotive landscape with all stakeholders.
“One of the things we celebrate here at AIA Canada is our unique organizational culture,” said Champagne. “We are convinced that France is and will be a champion of our values, an enthusiast for our culture and our potential. France brings terrific experience and a deep knowledge of the association industry.”
More information on AIA Canada can be found at aiacanada.com.
