Jack Kelleher Will Exit AMOA In Fall Lori Schneider Succeeds As Exec Veep

SAN ANTONIO, TX -- During its State Council Meeting here last week, the Amusement and Music Operators Association announced that AMOA deputy director Lori Schneider will become the association's chief staff executive. Schneider will succeed Jack Kelleher as executive vice-president on Oct. 1, 2016, becoming the Chicago-based association's 12th top staff executive during its 68-year history.

Making the announcement on Jan. 29, Kelleher said he was "absolutely delighted" to share the news. "After joining AMOA in the spring of 2004, Lori quickly established herself as an integral part of the organization," he said. "I've seen Lori take on and successfully guide countless programs, services and events. You need to look no further than this [AMOA State Council] meeting to see evidence of her abilities and leadership."

Prior to joining AMOA, Schneider held several positions spanning a decade at the American Hardware Manufacturers Association, where she coordinated the association's annual domestic events and its U.S. pavilions at major international trade shows. She lives in Crystal Lake, IL, with her family.

"I'm honored to serve as AMOA's next executive vice-president and privileged to work with volunteer leaders who are passionate about this industry," Schneider said. "I look forward to continuing to build on AMOA's current programs, and explore new ways to best serve our membership inspired by that passion."

As part of the transition plan, Kelleher will be retained by AMOA in a part-time capacity, focusing on communications, promotion and education, among other areas. As he moves into his new role this fall, Kelleher will complete his 18th year as AMOA's executive vice-president, making his tenure the longest among the organization's top staff leaders.

"I'm proud of what has been achieved during my watch, but what has been most rewarding to me have been the friendships I've made and the experiences I've shared with so many people," Kelleher said. "It's been a tremendous run. I look forward to supporting Lori and AMOA in the future."

Lori Schneider and Jack Kelleher can be reached at (800) 937-2662, or lori@amoa.com and jack@amoa.com, respectively.

PHOTO:AMOA president Jerry Johnston, Amusement Unlimited Inc. (Eugene, OR), congratulates Lori Schneider on her appointment as the association's new executive vice-president during a signing ceremony at the conclusion of the AMOA State Council meeting in San Antonio on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016.