ALA Taps Building Industry Exec as New President & CEO

The American Lighting Association (ALA) has named Jon Melchi (pronounced Melk-eye) as its new President and CEO after an intensive hiring process led by the association’s Executive Search Committee after Larry Lauck’s retirement in February.

With more than 20 years of experience in association management, public policy, and business development, Melchi is recognized for his innovative leadership and results-driven approach. He most recently served as executive director of the Building Industry Association (BIA) of Central Ohio, where he spearheaded key initiatives that modernized the organization and elevated its impact. Under his leadership, the BIA introduced new membership categories to reflect an evolving industry, launched a robust corporate sponsorship program, and revitalized its signature events — driving record engagement and revenue. His strategic vision significantly expanded membership and strengthened the BIA’s influence on housing and development policy across central Ohio.

“After completing a comprehensive search over the last few months, we are thrilled to welcome Jon as our new ALA President & CEO,” said Cathy Choi, president of Bulbrite and head of the ALA Executive Search Committee. “The Committee focused on finding a strong leader with significant trade association experience and an ability to drive transformation. Jon stood out among a group of highly qualified candidates, and we are confident that his leadership and the board’s guidance will position ALA for future success and growth.”

Since February, Laurie Gross of Gross Electric has served as Interim President and CEO of the ALA.

“We are excited to announce Jon as our new ALA President and CEO,” Gross said. “I was very impressed with the Executive Search Committee’s process and the time they took to find the right person to lead our amazing organization and work with our dedicated staff. I am looking forward to Jon’s transition into this role, and I will continue to work with him over the coming months as he learns about our industry.”

Before his work with BIA, Melchi served in leadership roles at Heating, Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), a national trade association representing over 1,000 companies across North America. As vp/government and external affairs, he directed the organization’s advocacy strategy, led high-profile legal and legislative efforts, and built relationships on Capitol Hill that contributed to the passage of key tax provisions, such as the expanded 179D energy-efficiency deduction.

Melchi graduated from The Ohio State University and has been recognized multiple times on Columbus Business First’s Power 100 list of business leaders. He is active in several national and state-level industry groups focused on housing, small business policy, and economic development.

He will officially begin his role with ALA on June 16 and will be in Dallas for June Lightovation. Laurie Gross and ALA staff will introduce Melchi to industry members throughout the show. All Lightovation attendees are encouraged to enjoy light refreshments and meet Melchi on Wednesday afternoon, June 18, at 1 p.m., at the ALA outpost on the fourth-floor atrium next to the Minka showroom in the Trade Mart.

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