ACI CEO Named Association Executive of the Year

Melissa Hockstad, the president and chief executive officer of the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), was named 2023 Association Executive of the Year by Association TRENDS and CEO Update.

The annual honor recognizes a CEO who “currently makes a vital contribution to the leadership of a well-recognized association, who has an impact on the performance of the whole organization and whose stature enables them to serve as an example of all that is best in the association world,” according to Association TRENDS, whose awards ceremony takes place March 17, 2023 at the Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C.

Hockstad is in her seventh year as the leader of ACI, the trade association for the cleaning product supply chain. During her tenure, Hockstad reinvigorated the organization’s strategic plans and priorities and invested in and bolstered ACI’s communications, advocacy, scientific and meetings teams to provide greater value for member companies.

“Melissa’s leadership of ACI has been nothing short of stellar, elevating the depth, breadth and excellence of an organization and staff that delivers great membership value for the cleaning product supply chain, year-in and year-out,” says Wayne Ashton, vice president, Home & Personal Care, IFF and chair of ACI’s Board of Directors. “Every year, she manages to elevate the performance of the entire association while ensuring it remains a great place to work.”

“What sets Melissa apart is her ability to develop and execute key strategies and priorities for her membership, maintaining a great and productive relationship with the Board, and investing in and building up the capabilities of ACI, all the while ensuring the organization is flexible enough to address unforeseen crises,” says Eric Reynolds, executive vice president and chief operating officer, The Clorox Company, and ACI Board Vice Chair. “While the coronavirus pandemic wasn’t listed in anyone’s playbook, ACI was able to pivot and deliver for its membership and stakeholders, redefining and showcasing the critical nature of cleaning products and their chemistries.”

Prior to joining ACI, Hockstad served as vice president, Petrochemicals at the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM). She previously held positions at the Plastics Industry Association, the Society of Chemical Manufacturers and Affiliates (SOCMA), and Basell Polyolefins (now LyondellBasell).

She received a M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from the Pennsylvania State University and a B.S. in Engineering Science from the University of Virginia.