Stefan Hay to leave NTDA after 11 years of driving industry reform
After an impactful eleven-year tenure, Stefan Hay is poised to step down as Chief Executive Officer of the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) this upcoming July 2025. His departure marks a significant moment in the history of the association, which has flourished under his leadership. As he prepares to take on the role of CEO at the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA) in August, the NTDA is already searching for a successor capable of building on the robust foundations he established.
Since joining the NTDA in January 2014, Hay has transformed the organisation into a financially stable and influential entity within the UK tyre industry. “It has been an honour to lead the NTDA and to work with such a committed, knowledgeable and engaged membership,” he stated. Under his stewardship, the association has enhanced its reputation as a proactive leader addressing critical industry challenges, garnering respect not only from its members but also from external stakeholders.
Hay's legacy includes the effective introduction of professional licensing programmes, most notably the REACT scheme and the Tyre Technician Professional Development Scheme (TTPDS). Since 2013, over 16,000 licences have been issued, which have significantly increased the professional standards within tyre fitting and roadside emergency response. This initiative not only elevates the profession but also strengthens the working relationship between technicians and key stakeholders such as police services and fleet customers.
Indeed, the NTDA has emerged as a formidable voice in national policy discussions, successfully advocating for critical changes benefiting the industry. Notable achievements during Hay's leadership include lobbying for the ban on 10-year-old tyres used in trucks and buses across Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Furthermore, the adoption of rear-facing red flashing lamps on tyre incident response vehicles has enhanced the safety of technicians and road users alike.
In addition to policy advocacy, the NTDA has solidified its role as a focal point for the industry through flagship events like the annual Tyre Industry Conference and the Tyre Industry Awards Ceremony. These events have become essential gatherings for industry professionals, attracting leading voices and fostering networking opportunities.
Martin O’Brien, NTDA National Chairman, articulated the significance of Hay’s contributions, saying, “Stefan has built a legacy of stability, credibility and influence, and we’re now in a strong position to recruit a new Chief Executive who can take that forward.” The challenges ahead are considerable, ranging from sustainability and digitalisation to skills shortages and regulatory changes. However, the NTDA remains well-prepared to lead and support its members as they navigate this evolving landscape.
In an era of transformation for the NTDA, the search for Hay’s successor is underway. The association is keen on finding a leader who will not only sustain its current momentum but also adapt and innovate in response to the demands of the sector.
As Hay transitions to his new role at AMDEA, his extensive experience and insights will undoubtedly contribute to advancing the domestic appliances sector. His journey within the tyre industry has illustrated the critical importance of advocacy, education, and strategic relationships.
The NTDA reflects on an impressive chapter in its history as it prepares for this leadership change. The organisation is well-positioned to continue serving its members and elevating the standards of the tyre industry, ensuring that it remains a respected and influential body in the years to come.