"For nearly thirteen years, Kevin has been a passionate champion for the U.S. apparel and footwear industry and it's more than four million American workers," said AAFA Chairman Philip C. Williamson, President, CEO and Chairman of Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing Company.

"Our industry has changed significantly since Kevin came to AAFA in 2001.  He brought a much-needed global vision to AAFA and travelled the world meeting with industry stakeholders to keep American workers competitive in the global market. 

"On behalf of the Board of Directors and AAFA's broad and diverse membership, I applaud Kevin for his great record of success in positioning AAFA as the influential political voice of the industry.  We wish him continued success in his next endeavor."

"I look forward to working with the AAFA Board of Directors and the talented AAFA staff to quickly name a new leader to guide AAFA in the years to come," Williamson said.  "With so many pressing policy issues facing the industry, including the near conclusion of the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations, time is of the essence.  We will act quickly to ensure seamless continuity in both leadership and AAFA's mission of standing at the forefront as a leader of positive change for the apparel and footwear industry."

"For the past several years, I have had the wonderful opportunity to serve a very dynamic industry as its top spokesperson in Washington," said AAFA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke. 

"The key lessons I've learned during my years at AAFA are that the U.S. apparel and footwear industry is always moving forward and that the industry must maintain its global perspective to remain competitive.  I will miss not being part of the day-to-day excitement of making it easier for Americans to get dressed each day, as well as working with the dedicated team at AAFA who made me a better association leader every day."

American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)