LAS VEGAS, Nov. 1, 2012—During his opening address as the new chairman of the Collision Industry Conference (CIC), State Farm claims consultant George Avery urged the industry to view him as the man he is, not the company he works for.
The appointment of Avery, who will officially begin his term in January, has been controversial because of State Farm’s ill-received parts procurement pilot through parts trader, which was introduced shortly before his selection. Avery told the CIC that he started in the industry as a painter’s helper and worked his way through the collision repair industry. He views the chairman position as a great opportunity, a privilege and a chance to help unite and advance the industry.
“The George Avery that has been in this industry for a long time, regardless of who he works for, is here and committed to CIC and I thank you for your support,” he said.
Avery said the industry faces significant challenges in the years ahead. He plans to bring structure and organization to the CIC, and ensure the voices of all stakeholders are heard, so they can overcome obstacles together.
“I believe what people want in a chair is someone who [won’t] control, but organize and get these thoughts in place so we can move forward,” he said.
Avery said he and Jeff Hendler, executive director of the CIC, are exploring new ways to get more voices heard, beyond open mics on the CIC floor.
Avery will take the place of Michael Quinn, who has served as CIC chairman since January 2011.
