The Louisiana Motor Transport Association (LMTA) has appointed Renee Amar to serve as the association’s executive director. The announcement concludes a three-month effort by the association’s executive search committee to fill the position. Amar has been in contact with the association’s staff and executive committee, and will formally start Nov. 30, 2020.

“I’m incredibly honored and excited to be working for one of the most critical industries in the state of Louisiana,” said Amar. “I can’t wait to bring my experience and passion for the business community and the LMTA to Baton Rouge and Washington DC to protect, serve and grow the membership.”

Renee Amar is currently vice president for policy and government affairs for the Pelican Institute for Public Policy. Amar crafts the Pelican Institute’s legislative strategy, directs its government affairs activities, and oversees major public policy projects for the institute. She collaborates with lawmakers and coalition partners to develop and advance free-market legislation and public education initiatives.

Previously she served as director of LABI’s Small Business and Healthcare Councils and deputy director of Political Action. Amar gave Louisiana small and independent businesses a voice in government policy making and encouraged a cost-effective, competitive health care market for Louisiana’s employers. Amar also fundraised for LABI’s four PACs—NORTHPAC, EASTPAC, SOUTHPAC and WESTPAC – recruited candidates for office, and developed endorsements.

Prior to joining LABI in November 2013, Amar spent eight years identifying and building relationships with legislators who work diligently to protect small business as the state director for the National Federation of Independent Business. She also worked for the Louisiana Hospital Association for four years in the governmental affairs department.

Amar founded and co-chairs a Policy Circle in Baton Rouge in 2018 where her and her colleague received an award in 2019 for Circle Experience just one year after creation. She serves on the state council for the Women’s Public Leadership Network. Amar started the Louisiana Women Lead organization in 2020 to recruit and train women to run for office. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Southeastern Louisiana University and pursued her master’s degree at Louisiana State University. She lives in Baton Rouge with her husband Randy and their dogs Maggie, Winston, and Reba. She is also a proud mom of three children, Damon, Brandt and Chloe.