Hayes Manages IAAM Operations
   Chief Executive Insures Members Get Excellent Service 

   Since 1986, members have seen a familiar face at member events or heard
   a familiar voice on the phone at IAAM's state office.

   Jon Hayes initially joined the association staff as the director of
   communications and insurance liaison. During his early years, he became
   involved in all the important facets of the Association, from the legislative
   program to professional development and service programs. In 1995, the
   board appointed Hayes to succeed his father, Jim, as chief executive of the
   Association.

Since taking over day-to-day operations, Hayes has facilitated IAAM's transition into the "information age." He was instrumental in the development and expansion of electronic services with implementation of the interactive website and e-services members enjoy today. He also navigated the transition from a local chapter-driven organization to the at-large system used today.

But perhaps the biggest challenge Hayes has faced was loss of group-sponsored health insurance plans offered through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan. When the Blues decided to eliminate profession-specific groups in favor or area rated programs, IAAM lost a major membership recruiting and retention tool. In response, Hayes and staff have steadily expanded member service programs in areas like continuing education, credit card processing, insurance, accounting business sales, client services, web-based education, and more.

Legislatively, Hayes has insured member interests are represented at the state and federal level, protecting the right to practice without restriction is secured. He's also nurtured important bureaucratic contacts that he uses to help members "navigate the system." And with the recent federal push to regulate tax preparers, his experience and insights will be crucial to insure members are heard and possible regulations have minimal negative effect.

Hayes remains active outside work by coaching youth sports, playing golf, and "playing in the gardens" around the family home in Bath. Jon met his wife, Joanne, when the two attended Central Michigan University. They have three children, Brian, 18, Dan, 14, and Tracey, 14.