Effective Jan. 1, 2009, Jeff Livaudais will assume the position of Director of Membership and Chapter Relations, following the retirement of longtime AFSA Director Lloyd Ivy.

Since he originally joined AFSA in October 2007 as its manager of member and chapter relations, Livaudais has played a crucial role in forming a new Alliance with the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to help AFSA members address reducing and preventing exposure to material handling, as well as fall hazards and issues related to motor vehicle safety.

In addition, he has increased communications between AFSA's National office and the local chapters and affiliates by updating the chapter organizational guide, creating a new bi-monthly chapter e-newsletter, streamlining membership materials and bolstering chapter involvement through membership drives and contests.

In his new role, Livaudais’ duties will be expanded to include responsibility for the promotion and retention of membership, development and implementation of new programs, maintaining effective relationships with AFSA Chapters and Affiliated State Associations, and serving as staff liaison to the Chapter Grants, Insurance & Safety, and Membership & Chapter Development committees.

Livaudais began his career in 1985 as the director of education at The Associated Builders and Contractors ― New Orleans, La., chapter, later transferring to the same position within the Corpus Christi, Texas, office, until he became ABC ― Nederland, Texas, executive director in 1989.

Livaudais holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Saint Joseph Seminary College in St. Benedict, La., and for the past year, he has studied under the watchful eye AFSA veteran Ivy, who after 22 years retired from his post as membership director.

Known for his colorful personality and zest for life, Ivy joined the association in October 1986 and has been a driving force in the association's growth ever since. Over his tenure at AFSA, the former Air Force Captain developed a strong membership with more than 800 contractor companies and implemented numerous safety programs, like the Manual of Recommended Procedures to Implement a Safety & Hazard Communication Program, Personnel Safety Handbook, Fall Prevention & Protection, as well as member networking programs, such as Members Helping Members.