Industry association MHEDA is losing its CEO, with Liz Richards announcing that she will retire at the end of next year.

“When I was first hired to run this fine organisation, I never realised what an impact the industry and the association would have on my life. It's bittersweet for me to tell you that I have decided on a retirement date and we will be conducting a search for the replacement of the CEO,” she says in a video message to members.

The MHEDA Board of Directors has hired Steve Riege from Ovation Leadership to assist with the search for her replacement.

“It has been an incredible experience to work with so many professionals in MHEDA, the Board of Directors, the membership and, of course, the amazing team of associates who work tirelessly to bring value to our members,” says Richards. “It has been a great ride for 27 years and I look forward to turning the reins over to the next leader who will undoubtedly bring a refreshing and innovative new chapter to MHEDA.

“I am honoured and humbled to have been able to serve this great industry.” 

Richards says the role changed her life. “I've made so many friends in the industry and I look forward to continuing those relationships with all of you,” she says.

MHEDA is a member-centric trade association serving approximately 600 companies and their associates across North America. Member companies represent distributors, integrators, manufacturers and special service providers that supply equipment, technologies and services in the warehousing, distribution centre and manufacturing environments. 

MHEDA, headquartered in the northwest suburbs of Illinois, currently employs nine associates.

To see Richards’ retirement message and find out more about the vacancy, click here.