SAAR's new Executive Director is committed to listening to industry professionals, strengthening partnerships with SGI, and delivering greater member value through planned initiatives including a consolidated annual event starting in 2027 that will combine a golf tournament, conference, and tradeshow.
- SAAR's new Executive Director brings experience in industrial procurement, supply chain, and business workflow solutions to the collision repair industry.
- The organization is consolidating its spring and fall events into one larger annual gathering planned for early to mid-September starting in 2027.
- The unified event will feature a golf tournament, conference, and tradeshow to enhance networking and learning opportunities.
- SAAR maintains a strong working partnership with SGI to address industry challenges and support workforce development.
- Leadership priorities include listening to members, evaluating high-impact initiatives, and strengthening industry relationships across Saskatchewan.
When I accepted the role of Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Association of Automotive Repairers (SAAR), I knew I was joining an organization with a strong reputation. What I didn’t expect was how quickly I’d come to appreciate the people behind that reputation.
Over the past several weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to meet shop owners, technicians, suppliers and industry partners from across Saskatchewan. One thing has stood out in every conversation. This industry is built on people who genuinely care. Whether it’s restoring a customer’s vehicle safely or helping a fellow repairer solve a problem, there’s a level of professionalism, pride and commitment here that deserves recognition.
My background is in industrial procurement and supply chain, enterprise software, and business workflow solutions. Collision repair is a new industry for me, so my first priority has been simple: listen, learn and ask plenty of questions. The willingness of everyone to share their experiences and perspectives has made that process both enjoyable and invaluable.
I’m especially grateful to Tom Bissonnette for his guidance during this transition. His leadership has helped shape SAAR into the respected organization it is today, and I’m pleased he’ll continue to be involved as we move forward.
One of the first things I noticed was the strong working relationship SAAR has built with SGI. It’s not common to see an industry association and an insurer working together as openly and constructively as they do here. That relationship has created opportunities to address industry challenges, improve programs and support the development of the skilled workforce our industry depends on. Maintaining and strengthening that partnership will remain an important priority.
As we look ahead, we’re also looking at ways to deliver even greater value for our members. There are plenty of ideas on the table, but we’re taking the time to evaluate what will have the greatest impact before making any announcements.
One change we’re planning involves our annual events. Traditionally, SAAR has hosted both spring and fall events. Beginning in 2027, we’re working toward combining them into one larger annual event that brings together our members, supplier partners and SGI colleagues. Our vision includes a golf tournament, conference and tradeshow, creating even more opportunities to learn, connect and strengthen relationships across the industry. While dates haven’t been finalized, we’re targeting early to mid-September.
I’m excited about what lies ahead for SAAR. Most of all, I look forward to meeting more of our members, hearing your ideas and working together to help Saskatchewan’s collision repair industry continue to grow and succeed.
