Summary: The Hearing Industries Association (HIA) has elected Brandon Sawalich, president and CEO of Starkey, as its new chair of the Board of Directors.
Key Takeaways:
- Leadership Transition: Brandon Sawalich, a long-standing HIA board member and former vice chair, takes on the role of chair, following the retirement of Sandy Brandmeier.
- Vision for HIA: Sawalich aims to strengthen HIA’s position as a trusted voice in hearing health and technology, collaborating with the board to address opportunities that benefit millions of users.
- Acknowledging Past Contributions: Sandy Brandmeier’s tenure as chair from 2023-2025 is celebrated for her impactful leadership in policy, education, and stakeholder collaboration initiatives.
The Hearing Industries Association (HIA), an association that represents hearing aid technology, announced the election of Brandon Sawalich, president and CEO of Starkey, as it’s new chair of the board of directors.
The HIA Board of Directors unanimously elected Sawalich to serve in the position following the retirement of outgoing Chair Sandy Brandmeier on Jan. 10, 2025.
“I am honored to take on the role of Chair of the HIA Board of Directors,” says Brandon Sawalich. “HIA remains the trusted voice on hearing health and hearing aid technology for consumers and policymakers, and I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members to address emerging opportunities that will benefit the millions of people who rely on our innovations for their health and well-being.”
Brandon Sawalich has been a dedicated member of the HIA Board of Directors since 2016, serving as chair from 2017 to 2021 and most recently as vice chair from 2023 until now, the association says.
“Brandon’s expertise in the industry and proven leadership at HIA make him an excellent choice to lead our organization,” says Bridget Dobyan, HIA’s executive director. “We are confident that under his guidance, HIA will continue to drive solutions that increase awareness and access to hearing healthcare for Americans. Further, I want to express my gratitude to Sandy for her leadership and passionate dedication to the mission of the Corporation.”
Further Reading
Brandmeier served on the HIA Board of Directors since 2019 and as chair from 2023 until her retirement. During her tenure, Brandmeier played an instrumental role in steering the organization through key policy, education, and collaboration initiatives among industry stakeholders.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the HIA Board of Directors,” says Brandmeier. “I am very proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a vital industry. I am confident that Brandon’s leadership, along with the efforts of the current Board, will propel HIA to even greater heights.”
Featured image: Brandon Sawalich, president and CEO of Starkey. Photo: HIA