MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Engages APA Search to Lead Presidential Search as Paul McCarthy Prepares to Step into CEO Role of MEMA

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers has announced that it has partnered with executive search firm APA Search to lead the search for its next president. This move follows the announcement that Paul McCarthy, current president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, will become CEO of MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, in January 2026.

APA Search brings deep expertise in executive recruitment across the aftermarket, transportation, manufacturing and mobility sectors, making them an ideal partner to help identify the next leader who will champion the needs of the vehicle supplier community in the rapidly evolving aftermarket.

"We are excited to work with APA Search to identify a visionary and results-driven leader who will continue to elevate the voice of aftermarket suppliers—across the automotive, commercial vehicle and remanufacturing sectors—and strengthen the association's role in advocacy, industry leadership and member value," commented McCarthy. "This transition is an opportunity to build on the momentum our community has created together, and we're committed to ensuring a smooth and strategic succession."

The incoming president will lead MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers in advancing its mission to support the business interests of automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers through public policy, market research, member programs and industry events such as AAPEX, the premier event for the aftermarket, and Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW), the largest North American gathering of heavy duty aftermarket professionals in the industry.

McCarthy has served as president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers since 2019, where he has played a pivotal role in strengthening member engagement, championing Right to Repair and guiding the association through a time of transformation in the vehicle supplier industry. As CEO of MEMA, he will lead the association's unified voice for the full spectrum of suppliers—including original equipment, aftermarket and commercial vehicle segments—while advancing MEMA's values of innovation, advocacy and member-centricity for the largest manufacturing sector in the U.S.—vehicle suppliers.

The presidential search is currently underway. For inquiries, please contact Erica Hali Conk at APASearch.

About MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment, and related products, an important part of the automotive parts manufacturing industry which supports over 900,000 American jobs in all 50 states. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a recognized industry change agent—promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues, and serving as a valued resource for member companies. Members represent all areas of the aftermarket including light vehicle, commercial vehicle, and remanufacturing. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a membership group within MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association.

MEMA is the leading North American trade association for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers, and remanufacturers. Automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers are the largest manufacturing sector in the United States and lead the way in new vehicle innovations. MEMA has been the voice of the vehicle supplier industry since 1904. Its more than 1,000 members are Strong by Association.

Members supply the aftermarket with the parts that keep millions of vehicles on the road, fueling international commerce and meeting society's transportation needs. MEMA members are committed to safety and sustainability.

MEMA has offices in Southfield, Mich.; Research Triangle Park, N.C.; and Washington, D.C. Learn more at mema.org/aftermarket-suppliers.