The BMW Motorcycle Owners of America has approved updates to the structure and operation of its Board of Directors. The newly adopted plan reduces the number of elected board members from nine to eight, while adding the MOA Executive Director as a non-elected board member who will serve in the role of Vice President. The total number of board members remains nine, but with a refined balance intended to enhance continuity, expertise, and long-term organizational stability.
One of the most notable changes is the adjustment of board member terms. The traditional three-year term will transition to a four-year term, creating a 2/2/2/2 election cycle, with two elected director positions opening each year. To realign the existing board with the new cycle, the Board President will extend the current terms of Chad Garcia (first term) and Michael “Roc” Shannon (second term) by two years. This temporary adjustment will be implemented in 2026 and 2027 to bring all terms into alignment under the revised bylaws.
Under the updated bylaws, members may serve a maximum of two terms of four years each, ensuring consistent opportunities for fresh voices, new perspectives, and ongoing leadership development within the organization.
A key element of the update is the addition of the MOA Executive Director (xD) as a voting member of the board, except on matters involving employee compensation, benefits, or their own employment. The board cited several reasons for this move. First, the Executive Director provides vital continuity, remaining in place through election cycles and bridging the gaps that sometimes arise with changing leadership. Second, the Executive Director is the only individual who works directly with all members, vendors, customers, and partners, giving them a unique and comprehensive understanding of the organization’s daily operations. Third, the Executive Director is ultimately responsible for implementing board decisions; having a voice and vote strengthens the connection between strategic planning and practical execution. Fourth, as the supervisor of all MOA staff, the Executive Director is in a natural position to help advise the board on its decisions. And finally, the change results in cost savings, reducing the number of traveling volunteer board members from nine to eight.
Assigning the Executive Director to the role of Vice President serves an additional purpose: leadership continuity. Should the President become unable to serve, the Executive Director would briefly assume presidential duties until the board elects a replacement, no more than 30 days. This safeguard ensures that MOA operations remain steady and uninterrupted.
Leadership roles among the eight elected directors remain unchanged. The President, Secretary, and Treasurer will continue to be elected from within the board, while the remaining five directors will serve as “pillar champions” for Grow, Connect, Support, Inspire, and Excellence. These assignments reflect the MOA’s strategic focus areas and provide clearer accountability for advancing core organizational goals.
Looking ahead, two elected board positions will open in 2026 for full four-year terms. Members interested in running must be current MOA members (and maintain membership throughout their term), gather five supporting signatures, and submit a brief candidate statement of 500 words or fewer along with a recent photo. Nominations are due February 1, 2026, and should be emailed to the MOA’s candidate search committee, which can also answer any questions about the process.
These updates reflect the board’s commitment to stronger governance, smoother transitions, and a more resilient future for the BMW Motorcycle Owners of America.
