CEO Arrivals

Abril appointed leader of cleaning group

The American Cleaning Institute has named Jennifer Abril as the next president and CEO of the $15M-revenue group, effective Aug. 11. She will succeed Melissa Hockstad, who took over as president and CEO of the Consumer Brands Association in January following eight years leading ACI.

“Jennifer Abril is the ideal person to lead ACI in its next chapter,” said ACI Board Chair Suzanne Carroll. “The Board was impressed not only with her deep experience in advocacy and policy, regulatory engagement, and trade association leadership, but also with the passion and dedication Jennifer has exhibited throughout her 25+ year career in the regulatory and policy arena. This, plus her experience within the chemical sector, will enable her to hit the ground running to lead ACI.”

Abril has led the Society of Chemical Manufacturers & Affiliates since 2016. Previously, she spent over seven years at the International Fragrance Association, North America (now the Fragrance Creators Association), where she served as president. She also spent nearly eight years at the American Chemistry Council.

She has a bachelor’s degree in international studies from American University and a master’s degree in business management from the University of Maryland Global Campus.

Korn Ferry assisted in the search.

Mulvihill to helm debt relief group

Jason Mulvihill has been named president and CEO of the recently formed Association for Consumer Debt Relief. The organization launched in May as a collaboration between the American Association for Debt Resolution and the Consumer Debt Relief Initiative.

“In this pivotal time for the debt relief industry, Jason is well-positioned to advance ACDR’s mission and help consumers across the country who are grappling with unsecured debt,” said ACDR Chairman Dan Frazier. “His leadership and expertise will help create a more unified voice for the industry, strengthen our advocacy efforts, and most importantly support responsible access to regulated, accredited debt relief services that protect and help consumers with financial recovery.”

Mulvihill most recently founded and served as president of consulting firm Capitol Asset Strategies. Previously, he served as chief operating officer, general counsel and head of government affairs at the American Investment Council, where he spent 12 years. 

He has a bachelor’s degree in history from Georgetown University and a law degree from Columbia Law School.

Korn Ferry assisted in the search.

Staff Departures

Plastics Industry Association—Anthony DiGrado has left his role of director of public affairs at $12M-revenue PIA to join clean energy company ClearPath as senior external affairs manager. He previously spent nearly five years at digital marketing agency IMGE, where he served as a senior account manager. 

Staff Arrivals

American Council of Life Insurers—Steven Ferenczy has joined $53M-revenue ACLI as assistant vice president for paid leave policy and implementation. He most recently spent nearly six years at Alliant Insurance Services, where he served as first vice president and compliance consultant. 

American Securities Association—Adam Rice has rejoined $2.3M-revenue ASA as chief public affairs officer. He previously spent nearly four years at the group, serving as senior vice president and head of public affairs. He also spent over two years at the Financial Services Roundtable, where he was director of communications.

CFP Board—Barry S. Gersten has been appointed as head technology officer of the $4.5M-revenue group. He most recently ran his own independent consulting practice. Previously, he spent six years at the American Nurses Association, where he served as chief technology officer. 

National Association of Manufacturers—Connor Rabb has joined $62M-revenue NAM as senior director of tax policy. He most recently was a legislative assistant for Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) for over two years.

National Grain and Feed Association—Allison Rivera has joined $8M-revenue NGFA as vice president for government and industry affairs. She most recently served as executive director of government affairs at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, where she spent nine years.

USTelecom—Cara Duckworth has joined $19M-revenue USTelecom as senior vice president of communications. She most recently served as chief corporate communications officer at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Previously, she was a vice president at the Association of American Publishers and senior vice president of communications at the Recording Industry Association of America.