Manheim has created a new role, vice president of Industry Partnerships, and has appointed Julie Picard to it, the company announced.

In this role Picard will be responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction for all automotive industry groups, including the National Auto Auction Association, where she is currently the president-elect, set to serve as NAAA president in 2021, the company added.

She will also work with Cox Automotive’s Government Affairs and Industry Relations teams to address key issues facing its partners and the industry.

Picard has been with Manheim for 28 years, and in the time she has held various roles. She began as controller and manager of finance and administration for Manheim Seattle in 1992 and most recently served as west region vice president, where she developed and implemented growth strategies for 14 auctions.