WASHINGTON, DC- The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) announced that it has named Jay Timmons president and CEO, effective January 2011. Timmons has served as executive vice president at the NAM and will succeed former Michigan Governor John Engler in this position.

Timmons has extensive experience in government relations, public affairs, political campaigns and business. He is a proven leader at the NAM, working alongside the nation’s leading manufacturers, members of Congress, and the Administration to advance a pro-manufacturing agenda.

"I have a deep respect for Jay and his exceptional experience," said Michael Campbell, NAM board chair and president and CEO of Arch Chemicals Inc. "It is a testament to the depth and development of talent at the NAM that we have an internal candidate as well qualified as Jay to succeed John Engler. Jay has a keen understanding of manufacturing and he has relationships on both sides of the aisle in Washington. Jay has helped lead the NAM during good economic times- and has remained unflappable during the most difficult economic times manufacturers have ever faced. His experience and personal conviction for the manufacturing cause make him an ideal choice for this position. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Jay as we build upon the NAM's great success and momentum in advancing a national jobs agenda."

In his current position as executive vice president at the NAM, Timmons oversees all policy development, communications, government relations, and advocacy efforts. Timmons is a native of Chillicothe, OH, a manufacturing community that instilled in him the value of manufacturing and its positive impact on people, families and communities.

“My grandfather was a manufacturing worker and I benefitted from learning firsthand the commitment and pride manufacturers have for their products, jobs and community," said Timmons. "I am humbled and honored to now lead an organization that advocates and fights for an environment and platform in which American manufacturers can create, innovate and employ millions of Americans.”

Timmons’ experience includes service as a chief of staff in the U.S. House and Senate as well as the Virginia Governor’s office. He is also a member of the Business Industry Political Action Committee (BIPAC) Executive Committee and the Board of Directors for Local Finance Solutions Inc. Timmons is a passionate advocate for the adoption of companion animals and is the immediate past Chair of the Washington Humane Society. Timmons attended The Ohio State University and resides in McLean, VA.