ARA names new CEO

The American Rental Association (ARA) has named Tony Conant as its new executive vice president and CEO.

Mr Conant will succeed Christine Wehrman, who is retiring after 16 years with the association, when assumes the role mid-November

He will be the fourth executive vice president and CEO of the ARA since it was founded in 1955 and most recently served as chief operating officer at the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), headquartered in Phoenix.

ARA president Roger Vajgrt, owner of Home Rental Center & Sales, said, “The board of directors is pleased to have Tony join the ARA. We look forward to his leadership and contributions to advance the forward momentum of the association. His professional career experience and education is a definite asset to ARA as we look ahead to the future of the equipment rental industry.”

Mr Conant has spent more than 20 years developing operations and supply chains at leading international companies, including Intel, BASF, Whirlpool and Bank of America. Previously, he was the vice president of operations and share services at direct marketing company One Touch Direct, where he oversaw 200% revenue and headcount growth in his five-year tenure.

“I welcome the opportunity to join such a dynamic organisation and staff team,” said Mr Conant. “Hallmarks of the organisation are innovative and strategic thinking that represent the equipment rental industry very effectively. I look forward to building upon that ARA legacy with the volunteer leaders and staff members.”