AQHA CEO Karl Stressman Announces Official Retirement

The American Quarter Horse Association announced today that Karl Stressman, who has served as chief executive officer since May of 2022, will be retiring.

Under Karl’s leadership, the organization has maintained its current talent and hired top candidates to fill open positions that best serve the membership and their American Quarter Horses; implemented the myAQHA member services platform; updated to a new, better phone system; decreased hold times and lag times in paperwork completion; engaged and improved relationships with AQHA affiliates; and much more.

“Leading AQHA has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Karl Stressman, AQHA CEO. “Our mission and our members have inspired me every single day, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. I know the organization is in a strong place for the next chapter, and I’m confident the Executive Committee will find the next right person for the job.”

The AQHA Executive Committee has launched a search for the organization’s next CEO to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. The search includes retaining the services of Jim Harlan of MJM Global Search, Inc., who has successfully placed top executives at many major equine industry associations and organizations within his more than 30-year career.

“Karl Stressman’s impact will be felt for years to come,” said Jeff Tebow, AQHA President. “He came in and did what we needed him to do when we needed him to do it. He reestablished a strong foundation of integrity, growth and innovation that will carry us forward. We are deeply grateful for Karl’s dedication and leadership, and we know he leaves big boots to fill. We are excited to see what AQHA’s future has in store, and we take filling this position and the proper care and handling of the AQHA staff and membership very seriously.”

Stressman will remain in the role until the proper candidate is selected to allow a smooth handoff to his successor.

Anyone interested in applying for the position should email their resume to Jim Harlan at jim@mjmglobalsearch.com.

As we have updates, they will be shared at aqha.com.

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