The Automotive Oil Change Association recently moved its headquarters from Richardson, Texas, to Chicago, and replaced its management staff with association management firm SmithBucklin.
Founded in 1987, AOCA is a non-profit trade organization. Lube Report was unable to reach AOCA officials for comment by press time.
The decision to move to a management company was made to better position AOCA for future growth and to provide improved benefits and services to membership, the association stated in a FAQ on its web site, also noting AOCA has a solid financial position. The association will have a dedicated group of staff members from SmithBucklin in the Chicago headquarters office.
According to the FAQ, SmithBucklin is managing the day-to-day operations of AOCA but will not have a seat on the board of directors. Our executive director will work with the board to recommend strategies and determine the best way to leverage the organizations resources to meet member needs. AOCAs web site doesnt yet list an executive director.
AOCA also confirmed there is a formal agreement between it and SmithBucklin. It includes provisions to protect both AOCA and SmithBucklin, including strict financial accountability on both sides, detailed scope of service on which the budget is built, insurance coverage, annual headquarters review, detailed service charges for the new headquarters and a 180-day termination clause, AOCA stated
SmithBucklin has a comprehensive annual service assessment for all its client organizations. This assessment will allow us to evaluate SmithBucklins services in all areas, and identify and address any areas that may be of concern, AOCA said.
According to AOCA, the management fees charged by SmithBucklin are lower than the associations current cost of operation, and more dollars will be spent on developing value. We will now have a state-of-the-art database, we will develop a robust website, expanded product offerings etc., the association noted.
AOCA is holding its 2012 annual membership meeting on Oct. 29 in Las Vegas, in conjunction with the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo and Specialty Equipment Market Association auto trade shows that will be held Oct. 30 through Nov. 1.
SmithBucklin provides full-service management and outsourcing services to 320 trade associations, professional societies, technology user groups, corporations, government institutes/agencies and other non-profit organizations. It has offices in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Old Lyme, Conn., St. Louis and St. Paul, Minn.