CEO Departures

Miller to leave biochemical group

Mona Miller announced on LinkedIn that she would be stepping down as CEO of the $14 million-revenue American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) in the first half of next year.

“The decision stems from an unexpected family transition to Massachusetts this year and a lot of reflection,” she posted. “It’s been an honor to lead and help guide this wonderful organization during a pivotal time for science and societies.”

CEO Arrivals 

Steve Smith to helm Airforwarders Association 

The $900,000-revenue, Washington, D.C.-based Airforwarders Association (AfA) named Steve Smith CEO. He will succeed Brandon Fried, who has led the organization for 21 years. 

Smith brings over 25 years of leadership experience, including 13 years as president and chief executive of Airlink, and a senior commercial role with Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace. 

At Airlink, Smith grew the organization from a one-person startup to a nonprofit with revenue of almost $20 million, working with more than 50 airlines and logistics companies. 

“Steve understands the issues affecting the industry and the importance of engaging members, and I am confident he is well-placed to lead the AfA and build on the work we have done over the past two decades,” said Fried. 

Watkins to lead construction management association   

The $7 million-revenue, Vienna, Virginia-based Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) has appointed of Kevin D. Watkins president and CEO, effective Nov. 16. 

Watkins is currently chief operating officer of the American Institute of Architects. 

“Kevin stood out for his proven ability to lead complex organizations, build consensus, and turn ambitious goals into results. His vision for CMAA’s future, fresh ideas for deepening member engagement, and gift for listening make him the right leader for this moment. We are thrilled to welcome him as a partner to our members, chapters, volunteer leaders, and staff, and I am excited for the future of CMAA under his leadership,” said CMAA Board of Directors Chair Carol Holland. 

Staff Departures 

AdvaMed — Nick Halsted is leaving his role as vice president of government relations at the $55 million-revenue, Washington, D.C.-based AdvaMed. He is joining medical equipment manufacturing company BD as director of government relations. 

International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) — Roberta Wagner will retire as senior vice president of regulatory and scientific affairs at the $12 million-revenue, Washington, D.C.-based IDFA, effective Feb. 15, 2027. Prior to joining IDFA, Wagner held leadership positions at the Consumer Brands Association, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, where she spent more than 25 years helping to shape food safety policy and implementation. 

Staff Arrivals 

American Association of Political Consultants — Richard Hernandez has joined the $3 million-revenue, McLean, Virginia-based American Association of Political Consultants as director of membership marketing and communications. He most recently founded Daydeu and previously worked as a senior communications adviser on Sam Brown’s Senate campaign. 

Global Cold Chain Alliance — Matthew Wiggins has joined the $7 million-revenue, Arlington, Virginia-based Global Cold Chain Alliance as vice president of government affairs. He most recently served as policy manager for Greenlane Infrastructure. 

National Alliance for Care at Home — Jennifer Stewart is joining the $10 million-revenue, Alexandria, Virginia-based National Alliance for Care at Home as vice president of strategic engagement and experience. She was most recently an associate managing director of Home Care 100 at Lincoln Healthcare Leadership. 

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America — Christopher Tampio has joined the $16 million-revenue, Washington, D.C.-based Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America as vice president of state affairs. He was most recently vice president of government affairs at healthcare company Heartland Dental.