The Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association (ILMA) last week announced the departure of Executive Director Celeste M. Powers, effective September 30, 2014. Powers joined ILMA in July 2002 and led the Association in a sustained period of growth and importance to the lubricants industry.

During Powers’ 12-year tenure, ILMA continued to be the respected, go-to organization that it is today. “Celeste has been an important part of ILMA’s team, working with the Board of Directors and leading the staff in executing the Association’s strategic plan,” said ILMA President Lon Fanning. “She came to ILMA with the knowledge and experience necessary to take the Association in the direction the members desired, and Celeste is leaving us with an organization in solid shape to address industry challenges and opportunities for the foreseeable future.” “We are grateful for Celeste's contributions and her dedication to ILMA and its members,” added Fanning.

“ILMA has been so much a part of my life for the past 12 plus years, and I will always have fond memories of the wonderful members and all we were able to accomplish as a team to take ILMA to its best position in the history of the Association,” Powers said. “I have no doubt that ILMA will continue to be an industry leader, working to make sure that independent lubricant manufacturers stand for quality. I am deeply privileged to have worked with so many committed staff, board members, volunteers and colleagues, and I’m looking forward to continuing those relationships for years to come,” Powers said.

Fanning said that a search is in process for a new Executive Director. Martha Jolkovski is the Acting Executive Director.