TYSONS, Va. — Michael J. Stanton Jr. has returned to the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) as senior vice president and chief operating officer, the trade group announced today.

Stanton will work across the organization on strategic and operational issues and the development of new business opportunities. He will oversee the information technology and economics and data analytics departments, as well as NADA’s affinity programs.

“I am excited to be back at NADA and have the opportunity to enhance existing relationships and develop new ones to support franchised new-car and -truck dealerships and our industry,” Stanton said.

Prior to rejoining the NADA, Stanton served as vice president and general manager of J.D. Power’s Vehicle Valuation Practice. Formerly known as the NADA Used Car Guide, the service was acquired by J.D. Power in 2015.

Before the acquisition, Stanton served as vice president and COO of the NADA Used Car Guide. He also served as the association’s executive director of industry affairs. Before that, he was the national sales manager for the NADA Used Car Guide.

Prior to joining the NADA, Stanton worked for two auto manufacturers, primarily assisting dealers with their sales and service operations. He received a bachelor’s degree in political science from James Madison University and earned a master’s degree in business administration from Virginia Tech. Stanton currently resides in Washington, D.C., with his family.

“Mike is a proven NADA leader who will add bench strength to our team,” said NADA President and CEO Peter Welch. “He has worked many years gaining vast experience and building key relationships and partnerships throughout the automobile industry and beyond.”