The National Automobile Dealers Association announced that president and CEO Peter Welch will be retiring at the end of 2020.

Welch, 67, was appointed by the NADA Board of Directors in January 2013 to head the organization. Under Welch’s stewardship, NADA achieved a series of legislative and regulatory victories in a number of areas, including auto finance, tax reform, vehicle safety and international trade issues. Welch also led NADA through the sale of its used-vehicle valuation guidebook and its retirement planning business, oversaw an organization-wide rebranding initiative, led the planning of NADA’s year-long centennial celebration in 2017, and orchestrated the organization’s move to a new state-of-the-art office facility in 2018.

“I’ve had the distinct privilege of serving associations comprised of franchised new-car and truck dealers for 30 years, and it’s time for me to get ready for my proverbial ride into the sunset,” Welch said.

His retirement announcement triggers NADA’s succession plan, which includes the appointment of a NADA Director-led search committee. NADA has also selected international search firm Spencer Stuart to oversee the transition process. Spencer Stuart oversaw NADA’s CEO selection process in 2012.