ALA Welcomes Accomplished Association Executive as President and CEO

The American Lighting Association (ALA) announces Jon Melchi (Melk-eye) as its new President and CEO. This news follows an intensive hiring process led by the Executive Search Committee, a group of members appointed by the ALA Board of Governors to review and interview candidates.

With more than 20 years of experience in association management, public policy, and business development, Jon 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."

The announcement of Jon’s hiring follows the retirement earlier this year of ALA’s former President and CEO, Larry Lauck, and the subsequent appointment of Interim President and CEO Laurie Gross. Laurie has led the association forward over the past five months, setting the stage for a successful transition to new leadership.

“We are excited to announce Jon as our new ALA President and CEO,” said Gross. “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, Jon 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 Vice President of 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.

Jon 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.

Jon 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 Jon to members throughout the show. All Lightovation attendees are encouraged to enjoy light refreshments and meet Jon on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 18, at 1 p.m., at the ALA outpost on the fourth-floor atrium next to the Minka Showroom in the Dallas Trade Mart.