The American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) has named Wisconsin auto dealer Mike Darrow as its 2026 chairman. Darrow, who is the president of the Russ Darrow Automotive Group in Menomonee Falls, Wis., is ready to hit the ground running as the auto retail industry braces for a landmark year.
“We’re looking ahead at a consequential period for our association,” said Darrow, a second-generation dealer whose company employs nearly 1000 people at 15 locations representing brands including Toyota, Mazda, Nissan, Kia, and Honda as well as domestic brand stores, 20 service centers, and two body shops. “I’m excited to get to work in Washington, D.C., on a number of critical issues and I am committed to growing dealer involvement at every level of the legislative process.”
Darrow has served on the AIADA board of directors since 2016 and is focused on addressing the top concerns of international nameplate dealers in the United States, including vehicle affordability, trade policy, and regulatory standards. AIADA President & CEO Cody Lusk told members that the association is in good hands with Darrow. “Mike brings a wealth of industry and advocacy experience to the Chairman’s role. He understands the intersection of auto retailing and legislative policy and has spent his career working to ensure that lawmakers understand how this industry works and what it needs to grow.”
Other AIADA officers serving on the board in 2026 include Valerie Romero, Immediate Past Chairman (Ontario, Calif.); Jessica Germain, Chairman-elect (Dublin, Ohio) Ryan Mayer, Vice Chairman (Eastern Shore Daphne, Ala.); and John Hoctor, Secretary/Treasurer (West Palm Beach, Fla.).
