RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) has named Jay Burkhart, AASA vice president and chief strategy officer, as the executive director of the association’s new China Aftermarket Office.
“Jay’s formal appointment to this role is an integral part of the association’s long-term commitment to advancing its members’ business interests in the growing aftermarket in China,” said Bill Long, AASA president and chief operating officer. “His global aftermarket background with extensive, hands-on experience in commercial markets, including China, will be invaluable.”
Burkhart will be based at MEMA’s global headquarters in Research Triangle Park, N.C., and will provide strategic guidance and global aftermarket direction to Dr. Yilong Chen, managing director of the new MEMA China Center in Shanghai, which also serves as the location of the AASA China Aftermarket Office. Burkhart recently joined AASA after 16 years with Federal-Mogul, most recently serving as senior vice president, global aftermarket. He also previously served as vice president of global marketing at Tenneco Inc.
“The addition of Jay’s direction as a seasoned global aftermarket executive further enhances the AASA’s member resources available in China,” said Chen. “I look forward to collaborating with Jay to develop the AASA strategic platform for growth in members’ businesses here in China.”
“Our members in both the U.S. and in China have asked AASA for enhanced support regarding the China aftermarket,” said Bill Hanvey, AASA senior vice president. “With Jay’s global strategic direction and Dr. Chen’s industry profile in China, AASA can provide unmatched support for those currently doing business in China while also offering insight to those U.S. members who are interested in learning more about China’s aftermarket and developing a business plan for this rapidly growing opportunity.”
Next steps for AASA’s strategy to serve its members in China will be outlined at the June meeting of the AASA China Aftermarket Forum (CAF), the only aftermarket executives’ council of its kind in China, according to AASA.
