Marc Brazeau has been appointed president of the Automotive Aftermarket Repair Organization of Canada, bringing decades of automotive industry and association leadership experience to drive the organization's national expansion and strengthen representation for independent repair businesses.
- Marc Brazeau unanimously approved as AARO Canada president on August 12, following retirement from Railway Association of Canada
- Brazeau brings 20+ years of automotive aftermarket experience, including previous leadership at AIA Canada alongside executive director Patty Kettles
- His notable achievements include launching the Be Car Care Aware consumer campaign and securing the Tool Tax Exemption for automotive technicians
- Will provide strategic leadership and serve as national voice for AARO while supporting independent repair businesses facing industry changes
- AARO chair Steve Gushie called the appointment a key step in the association's growth strategy
Marc Brazeau has been appointed president of the Automotive Aftermarket Repair Organization of Canada.
In the role, he will work with executive director Patty Kettles and the board as the association expands its presence across Canada.
AARO’s board unanimously approved the appointment Aug. 12.
Brazeau recently retired after nearly seven years as president and CEO of the Railway Association of Canada. His work there included government and public affairs, safety, training and industry engagement.
He previously spent many years with AIA Canada, where he worked alongside Kettles for more than 20 years.
During that time, Brazeau led the launch of the Be Car Care Aware consumer campaign, a Right to Repair government and media relations campaign and the Tool Tax Exemption Campaign. The latter helped secure tax deductions for automotive technicians.
Brazeau also served as vice-president of sales and marketing at Uni-Select, where he built a national sales structure and launched the Bumper to Bumper brand.
“The automotive aftermarket has always been an industry that I have loved, and I’m motivated and excited to have the opportunity to return,” Brazeau said.
He said strong representation, relevant training, industry partnerships and a national voice have become increasingly important as independent repair businesses face major changes.
Kettles said Brazeau’s experience in association leadership and the automotive aftermarket will support AARO’s plans for national growth.
“Marc and I worked together for more than two decades, and we have always complemented each other’s strengths,” she said.
Brazeau will provide strategic leadership and serve as a public voice for AARO while working with Kettles, the board, members and industry partners.
AARO chair Steve Gushie described the appointment as another step in the association’s growth.
“Marc’s extensive association experience and knowledge of the automotive aftermarket make him an excellent addition to AARO,” Gushie said.
