By Frank Andorka, Senior Correspondent
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has returned to full strength, adding two members to its executive team: one who saw the association through some tough trade times and one outsider to bring a new perspective to the association as it looks to navigate the near-term and long-term futures of the solar industry.
John Smirnow will rejoin SEIA as general counsel and vice president of market strategy, and Tony Chen will serve in the newly created position of vice president of business development.
The announcement comes weeks after SEIA dismissed its previous executive vice president and general counsel (and interim CEO) Tom Kimbis and SEIA’s Vice President of Federal Affairs Christopher Mansour. The additions seem to address Kimbis’ departure. Sources tell SolarWakeup the search continues for Mansour’s successor.
Given that the association’s focus is moving away from trade, it may come as a surprise to some in the industry that Smirnow has returned, given his previous experience with the organization was so closely tied to international trade
At a previous point in his career, Smirnow was SEIA’s vice president for international trade, where he oversaw the first and second trade battles surrounding SolarWorld and their crusade against Chinese module manufacturers. In the most recent SolarWorld battle, Smirnow represented large-scale utility clients as a well-respected trade lawyer. he returns to SEIA ready for the new challenges that lie ahead.
“Abby’s strategic vision and her laser focus on supporting a thriving solar industry is what made this job so appealing to me,” Mr. Smirnow said. “No doubt our industry faces challenges, but I firmly believe that this leadership team can knock down barriers to market entry for our members and build an unparalleled energy industry trade association through strong strategic positioning.”
Chen has more than a decade of experience in business development in the solar industry, including his tenure as vice president of sales and business development at Cool Earth Solar, and as a project development manager at SolarCity where he managed a $35 million sales pipeline. His vast experience with companies ranging from startups to Fortune 500 corporations will be critical as SEIA looks to expand its offerings and reach new audiences for engagement.
“Whether through building on our traditional membership, capitalizing on our events, or developing new services and products for the solar industry, there are fantastic opportunities for growth,” Chen said. “I can’t wait to get started finding creative ways to help the industry itself and SEIA realize it’s enormous potential.”