The Alabama Retail Association’s board of directors has selected Alison Hosp as its next president. She will succeed longtime President and CEO Rick Brown when he retires at the end of the year.
Hosp will become president January 1, 2027. Brett Johnson, the association’s vice president, will become CEO.
Hosp joined the association as communications director in 2001. She became vice president in 2005 and senior vice president in 2024. She now leads the association’s government relations activities.
“Alison has been an integral part of ARA for more than two decades, and she has played a key role in the growth and success of this organization,” Melissa Cross, the association’s board chair, said.
Cross said Hosp understands the issues confronting Alabama businesses and has earned the respect of state legislators and business leaders.
“At the same time, we recognize the legacy Rick leaves after years of service,” Cross said. “He has guided this association through tremendous growth. We are grateful for all he has done and confident Alison will build on that foundation.”
Hosp said she is honored by the board’s decision and looks forward to continuing the association’s work on behalf of Alabama retailers.
“I am excited about the opportunity to lead an organization that does so much to advocate for and support businesses across our state,” Hosp said. “Rick has set an incredibly high standard, and I am grateful for his mentorship. I look forward to working with our members and team to continue moving Alabama’s retail industry forward.”
Brown joined the association in 1989 and served 16 years as vice president before the board selected him as its second president in 2005. He will retire after 37 years with the organization.
During Brown’s tenure as president, the association’s membership grew from about 200 to about 4,500. He also served as administrator of Alabama Retail Comp, the association’s self-insured workers’ compensation fund.
Johnson succeeded Brown as the fund’s administrator in 2025.
“Working for the people and businesses that feed, clothe and support their communities has been incredibly rewarding,” Brown said. “Alison and Brett have been tremendous colleagues and leaders, and I could not be happier to welcome them into these roles.”
The association said the leadership transition will take place over the coming months. Brown will continue to serve through December 31.
