CHARLESTON — The West Virginia Manufacturers Association is going with a known commodity as its next president.
The WVMA Board of Directors has announced it has hired Bill Bissett to replace outgoing president Rebecca McPhail, who recently took another job.
Bissett, who will start on Jan. 2, most recently served as state director for U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito. Before that Bissett led the Huntington Area Chamber of Commerce, the Kentucky Coal Association and held a key position in the administration of Marshall University.
“Bill Bissett absolutely is ready to lead the WVMA into the future,” said WVMA Board President Barbara Buck in a news release. “There are not many people who could step in and run with the tremendous momentum that we have had under Rebecca’s leadership, but Bill is the right person for the job.”
Bissett said being the president of the WVMA is another meaningful opportunity in his career.
“Joining the WVMA is the perfect chance for me to dig in and work with the people who rescued our nation during the pandemic and are building our future — the manufacturers,” Bissett said. “This segment of our economy has boundless potential, and I look forward to helping manufacturers grow and prosper within the Mountain State.”
Capito said the WVMA has made a good choice.
“Bill Bissett has been a great state director and will do well as the new leader of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association,” Capito said. “I have known Bill prior to serving in Congress and always appreciate his insights and ability. I thank Bill for his leadership and service to the people of West Virginia and know he will do great things for the manufacturers.”
McPhail, who will join the American Chemistry Council as vice president of state affairs and political mobilization, praised the hire of her replacement.
“It has been an incredible honor to lead the WVMA, and I could not be happier to know that this organization will be in Bill’s capable hands,” McPhail said. “I look forward to continuing the long-standing partnership with the WVMA as I settle into my new role with the American Chemistry Council.”
Bissett was in the most recent class of the West Virginia Public Relations Hall of Fame.
