MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, Names Emily Poladian President of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association (MEMA) announced the appointment of Emily Poladian as president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, which represent North American automotive and commercial vehicle aftermarket suppliers.

Poladian brings more than 27 years of supplier industry experience and a proven record of leadership in the global aftermarket. Most recently, she served as president of Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, leading a multi-billion-dollar aftermarket business focused on data-driven solutions and services to the transportation industry.

In that role, she spearheaded strategic growth initiatives, digital transformation and partnership development to strengthen customer value and operational performance. Her career spans nearly three decades at Bridgestone, where she held leadership roles across global markets, including Asia and North America, and led Firestone Industrial Products as president.

"You can often judge the quality of an organization by the quality of people it attracts," said MEMA CEO, Bill Long. "We are fortunate to have Emily join us and bring her extensive industry knowledge to advancing the business interests of aftermarket suppliers." 

"Emily knows this industry because she's lived it," said Paul McCarthy, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. "She's an accomplished supplier executive with deep experience and an outstanding reputation built on results, relationships and respect. Emily leads with authenticity and collaboration—qualities that make her an excellent cultural fit for MEMA and a strong advocate for our members across the aftermarket." 

Poladian has been actively engaged with MEMA throughout her career, previously serving as a board member of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and as a former board member of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA).

Her appointment follows a comprehensive national search conducted by APA Search and a rigorous selection process led by MEMA's leadership and board committees. 

Poladian joins MEMA on November 1, coinciding with AAPEX 2025, a fitting moment to begin engaging with members and industry partners in her new capacity. Her appointment comes as Paul McCarthy transitions into his role as president and CEO of MEMA in January upon Bill Long's announced retirement.  Together, Emily and Paul will work with the MEMA leadership team and board to advance the association's mission of connecting members to what matters most in the aftermarket.

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.