The Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association, based in Alexandria, Virginia., U.S.A.,  has announced the appointment of a new executive director, Holly Alfano. She succeeds Celeste Powers, who was executive director for 12 years ending in September 2014. Alfano’s official appointment will begin on March 23, 2015.

Alfano comes to the position with more than 20 years of experience working with and representing the petroleum industry. Most recently, she served as vice president of government affairs for NATSO for eight years. Alexandria, Va.-based NATSO is the trade association founded in 1960 as the National Association of Truck Stop Operators. It represents the travel plaza and truckstop industry on legislative and regulatory matters; serves as the official source of information on the industry; provides education to its members; conducts an annual convention and trade show; and supports efforts to generally improve the business climate in which its members operate.

Prior to NATSO, Alfano was vice president of the Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA), which represents fuel retailers and wholesale distributors of petroleum. As PMAA's vice president, Alfano directed the association’s communications, advocacy and member service initiatives. Alfano came to PMAA from one of its state associations, the Louisiana Oil Marketers & Convenience Store Association, where she served as executive director.

Alfano has extensive experience dealing with regulatory agencies and Congress on a wide range of environmental, transportation and workplace issues.