MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association (MEMA) has announced the retirement of its president and CEO, Bill Long , to be effective January 3, 2026.

MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, is regarded as the leading trade association in North America for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers, and remanufacturers.

Under Bill Long’s visionary leadership, MEMA has seen significant growth and transformative changes that have solidified its position as a leading association in the industry.

“Throughout his tenure, Bill Long has been instrumental in fostering innovation, advocating for industry interests and strengthening MEMA’s role in shaping the future of motor and equipment manufacturing through some of the most challenging and transformative times in automotive history. His leadership, dedication and expertise have earned him widespread respect and admiration from colleagues and industry partners alike during his more than 40-year career,” said MEMA Chairman Kurk Wilks, president and CEO of MANN+HUMMEL.

In conjunction with Bill Long’s retirement, the MEMA Board of Directors announced the appointment of Paul McCarthy as the new president and CEO, effective January 3, 2026.

“Paul McCarthy brings a wealth of industry experience and a deep commitment to advancing MEMA’s mission.

“With his remarkable leadership skills and extensive industry knowledge, the MEMA Board is confident that in Paul McCarthy, they have selected the right leader to drive the association forward and take it to another level, building upon the strong foundation laid by Bill Long,” says the organization.

Paul McCarthy has been an integral part of MEMA’s leadership team, contributing significantly to its success as MEMA’s senior vice president of strategy and president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. In his almost three decades in our industry, he has extensive experience in all of MEMA’s member segments: original equipment, commercial vehicles and the aftermarket. His vision for MEMA will enhance our value of member-centricity and our objectives of a powerful supplier voice, strong industry advocacy, innovation and excellence.

“I am deeply honoured to have served as MEMA’s president and CEO and am proud of what we have achieved together,” said Bill Long. “I have full confidence in Paul McCarthy’s ability to lead MEMA into a bright and successful future.”

Paul McCarthy added, “I am excited to take on this new role, champion the supplier industry I am so passionate about and lead the talented team at MEMA. Together, we will serve our members and drive a growing, profitable, innovative and influential vehicle supplier community. We seek to be an association that is vital to our members’ success, protects suppliers and helps our members see the road ahead in a time of change.”