The Brick Industry Association (BIA) has appointed Tricia Mauer its new president and CEO effective January 1, 2025.

The transition will commence on January 1, 2024. Mauer, BIA’s current vice president of membership & programs, will assume the role of BIA’s chief operating officer (COO). She will succeed longtime President & CEO/CFO Ray Leonhard, who will retire effective December 31, 2024. He will serve as a part-time advisor to Mauer starting in 2025.

"Trish has my wholehearted support and best wishes for her continued success,” said Leonhard. “The future is bright for our members and the clay brick industry, and I can think of no one better suited to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Mauer brings almost two decades of service with diverse BIA roles.

“I am honored to become the Brick Industry Association’s next president entrusted to lead our great industry,” said Mauer. “We represent the best, most sustainable building product, one that undeniably leaves our world a better place. We are truly fortunate to have exceptional members and a dedicated BIA Team, united by our unwavering commitment to our mission.”

After a decade of service, Leonhard’s legacy and BIA’s leadership transition is praised by its incoming chairman, Ed Watson, president and CEO of Acme Brick Co.

“I am very thankful to Ray Leonhard for his outstanding leadership during the last several years,” said Watson. “The BIA is in a very strong position financially and is poised to continue to strengthen and support the brick industry for years to come. By giving the board adequate time to transition his successor, I am extremely confident that this mission will be accomplished.”

Watson emphasized Mauer’s deep industry history.

“Trish Mauer is the right choice at the right time to become BIA’s chief operating officer and president and CEO,” said Watson. “She has a deep passion for the BIA and its members as we work to increase brick’s wall share and safeguard our industry. I look forward to working closely with Ray and Trish throughout next year to ensure a smooth transition of BIA leadership.”