Wednesday, February 29, 2012

ASBA Announces the Hire of Rick Murray as Chief Executive Officer

The Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) is pleased to announce the hiring of Rick Murray as its new chief executive officer, effective February 27, 2012.

The announcement concludes an extensive national and local search for a professional with association management, public policy and small business ownership experience. Murray will have the responsibility of managing ASBA’s business operations, directing the staff, and continuing to build upon the tremendous growth and success the organization has experienced in the last three years.


Born and raised in Albuquerque, NM, Murray’s previous experience includes heading up the New Mexico State Fair, managing a $13 million annual budget and 400 staff; as well as leading the New Mexico Dental Association. In 2002, he was recruited by the Arizona Dental Association (AzDA), which he led for six years until 2008. Under his leadership, the AzDA’s income grew from $800,000 to $2.8 million annually and he spearheaded the development of one the nation’s premiere dental conventions.

"I am ready to help move ASBA forward and build on the incredible momentum thanks to my predecessor Donna Davis and a very capable and dedicated staff,” said Murray. "I look forward to sharing my knowledge and past experiences in order to help our 11,000+ small business members thrive and succeed."

"On behalf of the ASBA Board of Directors, I am pleased to welcome Rick Murray as our new CEO,” said ASBA 2012 Board Chair, Joe Higgins. "Rick brings personal small business experience, public policy acumen and successful association management experience to the organization. Over our 40-year history, ASBA has been committed to serving and advocating on behalf of all of Arizona's small and mid-sized businesses. Rick is the perfect person to carry that legacy into the future”

Rick is also an avid entrepreneur having run several of his own businesses including an advertising agency, a production company and, most recently, a dental consulting business. His diverse professional background also includes careers as a news photographer and television news reporter.

Murray was selected to fill the role of ASBA’s chief executive officer from an original field of more than 60 candidates.

About ASBAThe Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) is the largest trade association in the state representing 11,000+ member businesses, and over ½ million employees in all 15 counties. ASBA members enjoy access to significant group discounts, countless opportunities to do business with each other, a wide array of insurance products, and active advocacy efforts on public policy issues to protect their businesses. Discover more at www.asba.com. Join ASBA. Be amAZed®

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