A North American search committee is working on a transition plan to identify a new president and CEO after longtime UMA leader Victor Parra announced his retirement late last year.
Parra plans to officially step down on March 31. He joined UMA in 1998, two years after the association took its current name. It was previously known as the United Bus Owners Association, an arm of the National Association of Motor Bus Operators.
During his tenure, Parra was a frequent industry advocate and commentator before media and politicians, such as testifying before Congress on motor coach safety.
In addition to the search committee appointed by UMA Board Chairman Dale Krapf, the association said Steve Klika, former president of the International Motorcoach Group, is managing the national search process for Parra’s replacement.
UMA said it is accepting letters of interest and resumes via email.
Krapf told UMA’s media outlet, Bus & Motorcoach News, the association will celebrate Parra’s career during the UMA Motorcoach EXPO in St. Louis from Feb. 26 to March 2.
