The North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA) proudly announced transition plans for John Schmeiser and Gary Manke, both of whom served NAEDA and its predecessor associations in leadership positions for decades, offering key support to NAEDA’s dealer members.

Gary Manke is retiring after a career with NAEDA spanning over 49 years.  During his tenure, Gary Manke played an instrumental role in shaping the future of the Midwest SouthEastern Equipment Dealers Association as its Executive Vice President/CEO.  Most recently, Gary served NAEDA as its Senior Vice President of Manufacturer Relations.  In this role, Manke was able to successfully continue his long-standing commitment to advocating for dealer interests, and driving industry-wide initiatives that promoted growth, efficiency, and sustainability. His ability to foster collaboration among manufacturers, dealers, and policymakers has earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and industry stakeholders.

“Gary Manke’s leadership has been a defining force at NAEDA for many years,” said Kim Rominger, CEO of NAEDA. “His strategic vision, dedication to excellence, and genuine passion for the industry and for assisting dealers have had an immeasurable impact on our association and the broader equipment dealership community. We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”

As Manke prepares to step into the next chapter of his life, he leaves behind a legacy of accomplishments that will continue to shape NAEDA’s mission for years to come. “I have had the opportunity to work with and beside our members who are some of the most genuine people you will ever meet. Thank you members for making my career a rewarding experience in this industry.”  His retirement marks the end of an era, but his influence will remain a guiding light for the Association and the equipment dealership sector as a whole.  Manke will also continue to assist NAEDA as a consultant on an as-needed basis as NAEDA transitions his responsibilities.

John Schmeiser most recently served NAEDA as its Chief Operating Officer.  Prior to this role, Schmeiser served as President and CEO of both the Canada West Equipment Dealers Association and the Western Equipment Dealers Association.  Through these various positions, Schmeiser offered his deep expertise for the benefit of equipment dealers throughout Canada and the United States for more than 30 years.  Schmeiser’s efforts and leadership were also instrumental in driving the important consolidation of equipment dealer associations that has resulted in a stronger association organization that today is responsible for government affairs and manufacturer relations for the benefit of equipment dealers at the federal level in both Canada and the United States as well as across 9 provinces and 40 states.

Schmeiser will continue to work in the equipment industry in various capacities as a key advisor and consultant for various stakeholders.  As part of Schmeiser’s commitment to the industry, NAEDA is proud to announce that Schmeiser will also be serving as NAEDA’s Brand Ambassador.  In this capacity, Schmeiser will use his extensive knowledge and passion for the industry to promote and advocate for NAEDA as it continues its mission to serve the interests of equipment dealers across North America.

“John has been a passionate advocate for our industry for many years, and we are thrilled to have him represent NAEDA in this new role,” said Kim Rominger. “His extensive experience, coupled with his dedication to advancing the interests of equipment dealers, makes him an invaluable asset to NAEDA. We look forward to the impact he will make in this new capacity.”

“I am honored to be appointed as NAEDA’s Brand Ambassador,” said Schmeiser. “The equipment industry has always been close to my heart, and I am excited to work alongside the talented professionals at NAEDA to promote the benefits of the association and its importance in advancing the interests of our dealer members.”

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