VAI Makes Staffing Changes in Support of Strategic Plan

Vertical Aviation International (VAI) announced five new hires and five promotions today as part of its new five-year strategic plan. The industry group said its priorities now include advancing safety leadership, strengthening advocacy, expanding workforce development, and increasing international engagement.

“These promotions are about matching people, roles, and resources to the work ahead," said VAI president and CEO François Lassale. "They are about building the association our members need between now and 2031. VAI must help the industry operate more safely, advocate more effectively, develop its workforce, and shape its future with evidence and credibility.”

Raffaele Vitelli, who has 20-plus years of association experience in program growth and non-dues revenue development, was named v-p of business development. His prior experience includes working for the American Public Human Services Association, the National Association of Social Workers, and America’s Health Insurance Plans.

 

VAI appointed Jim McClay senior director of regulatory affairs. McClay most recently was employed at the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, working on airspace, air traffic, and National Airspace System topics for general aviation, and he was previously part of the air traffic services team at the National Business Aviation Association for 13 years.

 

Katia Veraza was promoted to director of state government affairs and regional relations after almost four years at the association. VAI veteran Jay Clark also has a new role as technical director and will lead the association’s data project.

 

Tanya Kirchner moved into the role of senior director of conventions, in which she will lead events including Verticon, the Air Tour Safety Conference, and the Aerial Work Safety Conference. Recently, she directed VAI’s first Southeast Asia Aviation Safety Conference in Indonesia. Nine-year VAI veteran Emily Monahan was chosen for the position of assistant director of exhibits and experience. Meanwhile, Alyssa Vasquez was promoted from the conventions department to executive assistant to the chief of staff.

VAI hired Shawnna Kerns as creative director, who will manage marketing for events and membership and oversee social media outreach. Joining the safety and data operations team is Safae Assli, who brings expertise in data workflows, performance metrics, process documentation, and statistical analysis. Ubaid Tariq, formerly a data analyst with NAFSA: Association of International Educators and the FAA, is now VAI’s database administration manager.