The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) has named Jay Timmons as president and CEO effective January 2011. Timmons has served as NAM's executive vice president and will succeed former Michigan Governor John Engler in the role.

"I have a deep respect for Jay and his exceptional experience," said Michael Campbell, NAM Board Chair and president and CEO of Arch Chemicals, Inc. "It is a testament to the depth and development of talent at the NAM that we have an internal candidate as well qualified as Jay to succeed John Engler. Jay has a keen understanding of manufacturing and he has relationships on both sides of the aisle in Washington. Jay has helped lead the NAM during good economic times and has remained unflappable during the most difficult economic times manufacturers have ever faced. His experience and personal conviction for the manufacturing cause make him an ideal choice for this position."

Timmons' experience spans government relations, public affairs, political campaigns, and business.

As NAM's executive vice president, Timmons oversaw all policy development, communications, government relations, and advocacy programs.

Timmons is originally from Chillicothe, Ohio, a city whose manufacturing base made an early impression on him.

"My grandfather was a manufacturing worker and I benefited from learning firsthand the commitment and pride manufacturers have for their products, jobs, and community," Timmons said. "I am humbled and honored to now lead an organization that advocates and fights for an environment and platform in which American manufacturers can create, innovate, and employ millions of Americans."

Before this role, Timmons served as a chief of staff in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as well as in the Virginia Governor's office.