May 6, 2008
Contact: Mark Kitchens, AARP, 202-434-2560, media@aarp.org
WASHINGTON - AARP announced today that Bill Novelli has accepted the offer from AARP's Board of Directors to remain Chief Executive Officer until January 2010.
AARP's Board felt that Novelli's expertise and ability to lead were critical to retain as the all-important 2009 legislative session and new administration begins.
"Bill's steady hand has guided AARP through challenging and exciting times over the years, but the 2009 legislative session could be like nothing we've ever seen before," said Jennie Chin Hansen, AARP President. "An aging Baby Boom generation and our current health care and economic security crises present a new administration and congress with daunting challenges and will result in opportunities to solve these problems. We will need Bill's experienced leadership more than ever and we're appreciative that Bill has agreed to continue to lead."
Novelli led the organization through several critical campaigns including in 2003 to pass the Medicare Drug Bill, in 2005 to prevent the privatization of Social Security, and in 2007 to both create AARP's Global Network and launch Divided We Fail, a social movement founded by AARP, Business Roundtable, National Federation of Independent Business and the Service Employees International Union.
"When you have nearly 40 million members and they're standing with you, the impossible seems possible," said Novelli. "Together we've been able to achieve great things from groundbreaking legislation to AARP branded products and services that enhance the lives of people over 50, particularly in the areas of health and financial security. I couldn't be more proud of the great work AARP has achieved over the years and I look forward to the opportunities that exist for us and our nation."
In extending Novelli's contract, AARP also announced today that it is activating a transition process that has been developed over the last six months. This process will begin with the commencement of a nationwide search for Novelli's successor and will be led by AARP's Board.
"AARP has a thought-out transition plan to ensure the organization will continue to meet and exceed our member's expectations," said Jennie Chin Hansen. "We will soon begin a national search and will consider candidates both internally and externally, "she said.
Also, AARP Services, Inc. CEO Larry Renfro announced today he will return to Fidelity in Boston where Renfro began his career. Renfro will serve as Fidelity's President of Developing Businesses and a member of the Fidelity Executive Committee. As president of this new organization, Larry will oversee Fidelity HR Services Company, Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company, Fidelity Charitable Services, ActionsXchange and Corporate Business Development.
"Larry spent the last several years developing and implementing AARP branded health and financial product portfolio and has provided affordable choices for our members that were not available in the marketplace before. His contributions to AARP Services, Inc. will hold great value for our members in the years to come," added Novelli.
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