departments across the organization . Delaney first joined MMA in 2011 as part of our Government Affairs team , later taking on responsibility for membership and in 2022 becoming an officer of the association and aligning our marketing , communications , membership and events teams under a unified and efficient umbrella .
Mike Johnston , the leader of MMA ’ s powerful and effective Government Affairs team , will be named Executive Vice President of Government Affairs and Workforce Development . With more than 20 years at our organization and being twice recognized by Crain ’ s Detroit Business for his lobbying prowess , this new position recognizes Mike ’ s long-term leadership in manufacturing advocacy and his role in delivering solutions to our industry ’ s persistent talent challenge .
To complete the transition and support our mission to secure a prosperous future for Michigan manufacturers through effective advocacy , meaningful education and strategic business services , additional team members will be promoted :
MMA ’ s longest serving employee , Brenda Nalett , will be promoted to Director of Member Services . She will be expanding her leadership over the exclusive insurance , services and benefits MMA offers to members .
Ashley Wakefield , who joined MMA ’ s Government Affairs team last year , is being named Director of Membership , Marketing and Events to continue and expand the organization ’ s efforts to engage members on all levels .
Dane Cooke , who has served members across several departments over 15 years , is being promoted to Information Technology and Facilities Manager .
Our team will also be expanding soon to better serve you . Watch for announcements in short order .
Please join me in congratulating these outstanding professionals ! And to ensure that we are constantly evolving to serve your needs , please don ’ t hesitate to reach out to me with your thoughts , concerns and suggestions . 6
John J . Walsh is MMA ’ s President & CEO . To share your feedback , please contact communications @ mimfg . org .