For Immediate Release
VANCOUVER, B.C. – November 5, 2026 – The Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) of British Columbia, representing more than 1,000 businesses across six automotive sectors, has appointed longtime business and economic development leader Anita Huberman as its new President & CEO, effective November 16, 2026. Huberman brings decades of executive leadership, government relations, economic development and business advocacy experience to the ARA at a time of significant transformation for BC’s automotive industry. Her mandate will focus on strengthening ARA’s provincial voice, connecting its six industry sectors, deepening relationships with government and industry partners, and advancing the competitiveness, workforce and economic priorities of automotive businesses throughout British Columbia.
“BC’s automotive sector is an interconnected economic ecosystem, from automotive sales and service to collision repair, recycling, glass, towing and the skilled workforce that supports it,” said Anita Huberman. “I look forward to bringing these voices together, strengthening ARA’s provincial presence and working collaboratively with industry and government to build a competitive, innovative and resilient sector that contributes to economic growth in every region of our province.”
Huberman brings more than three decades of business leadership, economic development, government relations and industry advocacy experience to ARA. During her 31-year career with the Surrey Board of Trade, including 18 years as President & CEO, she played a leading role in advancing business priorities, influencing public policy, strengthening government and industry partnerships, and championing economic growth across British Columbia and Canada. Her extensive network and collaborative leadership approach will support ARA’s continued evolution as a strong provincial voice for the automotive industry.
Her contributions to business, community and public service have earned numerous distinctions, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, Simon Fraser University’s Distinguished Alumni Award and recognition among BC’s Top 500 Influential Business Leaders. She also serves as an Honorary Captain in the Royal Canadian Navy, reflecting her longstanding commitment to leadership, service and community engagement.
“Anita brings extensive experience in business advocacy, government relations, and organizational leadership,” said Rick Hatswell, Board Chair Automotive Retailers Association of BC and President, Operations for the Craftsman Group of Companies. “The Board is confident her leadership will strengthen ARA’s provincial presence, build stronger relationships with industry and government, and advance the priorities of our members. We look forward to working with Anita as we build on the association’s accomplishments and support the future of BC’s automotive industry.”
As ARA enters a new chapter of leadership, the association recognizes and sincerely thanks outgoing President & CEO Adrian Scovell for his years of dedicated service, leadership and unwavering commitment to BC’s automotive industry. Adrian has been instrumental in strengthening industry partnerships, advancing advocacy efforts and championing the interests of ARA members across the province. His contributions have helped build a strong foundation for the association’s future. ARA extends its heartfelt appreciation to Adrian for his lasting impact and wishes him continued success in his next chapter.
The Automotive Retailers Association of BC looks forward to the next exciting chapter of leadership to support our members and advance the interests of BC’s automotive industry.
MEDIA CONTACT
Anita Huberman|Honorary Captain, Royal Canadian Navy President, Anita Huberman Enterprises International Trade, Government Relations, Public Relations |604-340-3899
Burhan Osman | Marketing Manager burhan.osman@ara.bc.ca | ara.bc.ca