The National Notary Association, the largest organization serving the nation’s 4.8 million Notaries, has announced its selection of a new Executive Director — only the fourth in its 53-year history — to provide the leadership, drive and innovation to guide the American Notary office at the most critical time in its history.
Michael Robinson, the Association’s Director of Marketing & Member Services since mid 2009 and a veteran executive with vital experience in leading membership-based organizations and strategic initiatives, has been elevated to the top NNA position to spearhead the drive for creating new opportunities for American Notaries. Robinson assumes his new role at a time when the industries and sections of the economy on which Notaries are so dependent — real estate, mortgage lending and banking — are dealing with one of the worst downturns in history.
In announcing the new Executive Director, NNA President Milt Valera said that “Michael is a dynamic leader with a proven track record, and his knowledge and ability are important assets that will greatly benefit the nation’s Notaries as demands increase for education, sound best practices and strengthened identity verification.
“Michael has the experience and passion to lead the NNA in reinforcing its educational and benefit programs for a membership that has been wounded seriously by a dreadful economy,” Valera said.
In the year that he has been at the NNA, Robinson has created major initiatives to add value to our member communications and specific educational programs. His experience, coupled with his strong communications abilities and innovative approach to challenges, provide a new energy for the Association, Valera said.
“I am both humbled and excited to take on these new areas of opportunity,” Robinson said. “The services that Notaries provide have never been more important to the security of the nation and important financial transactions. Our goal is to make certain that the country’s Notaries take advantage of all that the NNA is able to provide on their behalf.” Robinson came to the NNA following successful careers as a chief executive officer, a strategic communications executive and other high level positions. He is regarded as an important and influential member of business communities in several states, and has appeared as an industry commentator on CNBC, CNN, MSNBC and Fox News.
He previously served as President and CEO of the San Diego North Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO of the Vail Valley Partnership in Colorado, and as Director of Communications for the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce. In those positions, Michael oversaw all programs for membership, economic development, marketing and media relations. Born and raised in New Hampshire, Robinson earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.