Public policy veteran brings decades of experience in public affairs; will further strengthen Auto Innovators’ work advocating for cleaner, safer, smarter mobility.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Alliance for Automotive Innovation (Auto Innovators) today announced that Garrick Francis will join the association staff as Vice President of Federal Affairs. He will lead the association’s Federal Affairs team that includes Senior Director John Ohly and Director Jared Eichhorn. Francis comes to Auto Innovators from CSX Transportation, where he served as Head of Federal Affairs, North. He previously served as Director and Assistant Vice President of Federal Affairs at CSX Transportation. His background also includes crisis and strategic communications and a master’s degree in public policy from Duke University.
Ohly and Eichhorn, who have both been with Auto Innovators since the organization’s creation, will continue to apply their expertise to advancing the association’s diverse policy initiatives. In addition to supporting the Federal Affairs team, Ohly will assume additional responsibility for developing strategic initiatives related to automotive innovation, as well as contributing to Auto Innovators policy development in the areas of cybersecurity, technology, and innovation. Eichhorn will continue to expand his responsibility as a key voice and resource for the auto industry, with a focus on matters related to the transition to a cleaner future for personal transportation. Don Stewart remains the Executive Vice President of the public affairs team, which includes Auto Innovators’ Federal Affairs, State Affairs, and Communications operations.
“We have assembled a terrific team that will work with our members to advance forward-looking policy in our nation’s capital,” said John Bozzella, President and CEO of Auto Innovators. “Garrick’s experience and strong relationships in Washington and the transportation sector will be a valuable asset to our advocacy and education efforts throughout the policy environment. The industry welcomes his fresh perspective and leadership in telling our story during this period of rapid innovation.”
“I am excited to be joining the leading voice for the automotive industry and for the opportunity to promote thoughtful policies that will keep the auto sector at the forefront of innovation and technological advancements,” said Francis. “Given the rapid pace of innovation, it is more important than ever for federal policies, rules, and guidelines to align and offer clear safety, fuel, and technology standards. These are key for the success of the industry’s long-term growth, research, and development for years to come.”
Auto Innovators’ members represent 99 percent of cars and light trucks sold in the US, as well as original equipment suppliers, technology, and other automotive-related companies.
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