The Board of Directors of the Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lauren Reed as the Association’s next Chief Executive Officer.

Lauren brings more than a decade of leadership experience in the material handling industry. Most recently, she served as Executive Vice President of Business Development at Storage Solutions, a Jungheinrich Company. She is a proven leader with a strong track record of building high-performing teams, driving strategic growth, and delivering results through authentic, people-focused leadership.

With expertise in business development, marketing, and strategic planning, Lauren is committed to making a meaningful impact—strengthening member relationships, inspiring innovation, and maintaining the high standards in resources, education and networking that MHEDA holds today. She is known for blending critical thinking with a deep understanding of people, process, and purpose to lead through times of transformation and growth.

Current CEO Jeannette Walker expressed her confidence in the transition:

“Lauren is a dynamic leader with a clear vision for the future,” said Walker. “Her industry experience and passion for MHEDA’s mission make her the ideal choice to guide MHEDA forward. I’m thrilled to see where she and the team will take MHEDA next.”

Lauren has been a dedicated MHEDA member for many years and currently serves on the Emerging Leaders Advisory Board. Her long-standing involvement and understanding of our industry’s unique challenges and opportunities make her an exceptional choice to guide MHEDA forward.

“I am honored to step into the role of CEO at MHEDA,” said Lauren.  “This organization has played a pivotal role in my professional journey, and I’m excited to lead with a focus on innovation, member engagement, and building strong community connections across the industry.”

The Board of Directors looks forward to working closely with Lauren as she joins the MHEDA team.  “We are excited to support Lauren as she builds on MHEDA’s strong foundation,” said Board Chairman Nate Storey. “Her experience, insight, and energy give us great confidence in the future of MHEDA.  Her leadership will help shape the next chapter of growth for our members and the material handling industry at large.”

About The Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA): The MHEDA community is where industry professionals come to expand their network, strengthen their businesses, and elevate the material handling industry. Through educational programs, industry insights, shared best practices, and resources for every member, MHEDA is home to everyone in the material handling industry. Discover more about MHEDA and how we empower the material handling industry at www.mheda.org.