Emily Holtby joins AIA Canada as the new Vice President of Government Relations, bringing her extensive experience in advocacy and public policy to the Association. In this role, Emily will lead AIA Canada’s efforts to engage with federal and provincial governments on key industry issues, including the ever-important right to repair movement.
Emily is responsible for developing and executing AIA Canada’s government relations strategic plan, ensuring that the association’s goals align with the evolving landscape of the Canadian auto care industry. Her role is crucial in maintaining communication with government officials and external stakeholders, shaping policies that benefit the sector. This includes monitoring political developments and providing strategic insights to AIA Canada’s leadership team.
A career built on advocacy
Before joining AIA Canada, Emily spent nine years as Senior Director of Government & Stakeholder Relations at the Canadian Media Producers Association, where she led numerous successful advocacy campaigns. Prior to that, she honed her skills in public affairs at an Ottawa-based firm and developed a deep understanding of the interplay between government and industry. Her early career in broadcasting deepened her passion for communications, a skill she has refined and consistently applied throughout every role she has undertaken.
Emily’s work has not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized by the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) for her leadership in advocacy and has been a two-time finalist in the Faces in Ottawa Awards for Top Government Relations Specialist. Her commitment to shaping effective public policy has also led her to serve on the Board of Directors of the Government Relations Institute of Canada.
Driving the right to repair movement
Emily’s dedication to the right to repair has been a central focus since joining AIA Canada. She believes the right to repair movement is key for consumers to choose where they repair their vehicle, as well as a cornerstone for supporting skilled workers and small-to-medium-sized businesses in the auto care industry.
While Bills C-244 and C-294 have made significant strides in amending the Copyright Act to allow for bypassing digital locks for repairs, Emily and AIA Canada continue to push for standalone legislation tailored to the automotive sector. Such legislation would ensure that consumers have ownership over their vehicle data and the choice of where they take their vehicle for maintenance and repair, allowing for a level playing field for all in the industry.
A vision for the future
Emily’s long-term vision for the right to repair in Canada is clear: a standalone right to repair legislation for the Canadian auto care industry. This would signal the government’s full understanding of the auto care industry’s unique challenges and ensure that consumers’ rights are protected. Her role with AIA Canada’s government relations ensures that the industry’s voice remains strong and that its efforts continue to benefit the industry. For Emily, it is not just about policy—it is about creating an environment where skilled workers, small businesses, and consumers can all thrive together in a fair and competitive market.
To get involved with the right to repair movement, and advocate for the future of the industry, you can: