(Ottawa, Ont., October 30, 2025) — There will be a new President and CEO at the Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) come Jan. 2, 2026
With more than two decades of experience in the automotive sector and “a passion for empowering the next generation of industry leaders,” the new head of AIA Canada Emily Chung looks to bring a “unique blend of hands-on technical knowledge, business leadership, and public advocacy” to the role.
“We are thrilled to welcome Emily as our next President and CEO,” said Tony Kuczynski, Chair of the AIA Canada Board of Directors. “Her passion and deep experience across every level of the automotive industry make her uniquely qualified to lead AIA Canada and to champion the challenges and opportunities facing Canada’s automotive aftermarket.”
Chung succeeds JF Champagne, who will continue with the organization through June 2026. The Board of Directors “extends its heartfelt thanks for his ongoing leadership and contributions to the organization and the sector at large,” as Champagne led AIA Canada through significant periods of transformation and growth during his tenure.
As founder of AutoNiche, Chung led a successful independent repair shop in Markham, Ont., for more than 16 years. Under her leadership, AutoNiche became known “not only for its technical excellence” but also for its inclusive, customer-first service model and commitment to education in the skilled trades.
Chung was the recipient of the 2024 Ontario Premier’s Award for Skilled Trades and Centennial College’s Alumni of Distinction Award. Having appeared on CBC, CP24 AutoShop, and Amazon Live, she is not only a familiar face, but is a frequent contributor to industry publications and public panels advocating for the Right to Repair and other key sector issues.
She also serves as a faculty member at Georgian College’s Automotive Business School of Canada, teaching and mentoring the next generation of automotive professionals, and is a current board member of the Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario.
“I am honoured to step into this role at such a pivotal moment for our industry,” said Chung. “AIA Canada has long been a strong, unified voice for the auto care sector, and I look forward to building on that foundation.”