German automotive supplier ZF has announced that effective May 1, Alex Gelbcke will take on the role of head of Europe at ZF Aftermarket, aiming to enhance the company's standing in the European market by improving customer relationships, increasing employee engagement and fostering business growth. Alex Gelbcke comes from LKQ Europe, where his responsibility is CEO Benelux and France. Through various management positions in several well-established companies, including 18 years at Tenne...

Seeing Machines Ltd., an Australia-based company specializing in AI-powered operator monitoring systems for transport safety, has announced the appointment of John Noble as its new chief technology officer (CTO). Noble, who has been with the company for over 20 years in various engineering roles, will direct the technology strategy and product development to meet increasing safety regulations in the transport sector, especially in Europe where there is growing demand for driver monitoring system...

Meko announced that it is strengthening its focus on commercial vehicles, including trucks, buses and transporters with a goal to achieve the same strong market position in commercial vehicles as in passenger cars. To lead this expansion, Meko has appointed experienced automotive industry leader Nils Hollmann as the head of its newly established Commercial Vehicle division. "We are stepping up our efforts and redefining the market to benefit our customers. Owners and operators of commerc...

Vincent Charles, previously serving as the head of Media Relations and the deputy head of Communications, has been appointed as the new head of Group Communications at Continental, effective from May 1. He will be taking over from Birgit Hiller, who has decided to leave the company to pursue a leadership role in a different industry.  Continental CEO Nikolai Setzer expressed his gratitude toward Hiller for her remarkable contributions to the company, highlighting her role in realigning C...

Continental has announced the retirement of Jochen Etzel, CEO of Continental Tire the Americas LLC, effective May 1. Tansu Işık will succeed him in this role and will be the new head of Continental’s Business Area Replacement Tires the Americas. He will report directly to Christian Koetz, executive board member of Continental and head of Continental Tires. The company said Etzel has significantly contributed to the consolidation and competitive strengthening of Continental's tire bus...

The Fuchs Group, a Germany-based independent supplier of lubrication solutions, has announced significant changes to its executive board, as the terms for CFO Isabelle Adelt and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Sebastian Heiner are set to conclude on Oct. 31 and Dec. 31, respectively, without plans for renewal. To ensure a smooth transition, Fuchs has appointed successors. Esma Saglik, with a substantial background in financial management and experience as CFO at Rehau Industries since 202...

Driven Brands, a US-based automotive aftermarket repairing and servicing company, has announced its COO Daniel Rivera as the incoming president and CEO, effective May 9. The announcement followed Jonathan Fitzpatrick's notification of his intent to step down from the roles of president and CEO on the same date, a position he has held since 2012. Fitzpatrick will transition to a non-executive chair of the board role and continue to serve as a senior advisor throughout 2025 to ensure a smooth h...

Blink Charging Co., a global electric vehicle charging equipment and services provider, has appointed Chris Carr as its new senior vice president of Sales & Business Development. Carr brings over a decade of sales leadership experience across various industries, including a significant seven years in the renewable energy sector, emphasizing solar, energy storage and hydrogen fuel cells. In the past four years, Carr has specifically focused on the EV charging sector, contributing to the gr...

Monro Inc., an independent auto service and tire dealer in the US, has announced the immediate promotion of Nick Hawryschuk to senior vice president — Operations, elevating him from his previous role as vice president — Finance and Operations. In his new position, Hawryschuk will oversee all aspects of Monro's retail and commercial operations, focusing on the development and execution of the company's strategy and implementation plan to achieve strategic goals. He will dire...

Dayco, a US-based engine products and drive-systems supplier for the automotive and aftermarket industries, announced the appointment of Andy Poorman as the new head of Sales for North America Aftermarket. Poorman's background includes a notable tenure as vice president of Sales at Wolo Manufacturing, where he played a significant role in achieving record sales figures. His extensive experience encompasses various aspects of the sales industry, including planning, marketing, product managemen...

LKQ Corp. announced that it has introduced two new independent directors, Sue Gove and Michael Powell, to its board of directors, effective immediately. This enhancement is part of a broader strategy that included the formation of a finance committee within the board. These changes come as part of a cooperation agreement with Ancora Catalyst Institutional LP, Engine Capital LP and their affiliates, following a period of constructive engagement. Sue Gove, the founder and president of...

Continental has appointed Nino Romano as the new chief technology officer (CTO) of its Automotive Group, which is in the transition phase toward becoming an independent publicly listed entity, effective Feb. 1. He succeeded Gilles Mabire who left the German supplier in November 2024. Romano has been associated with Continental for more than 30 years. Prior to the latest promotion, he was serving as the head of Quality and Operations. Romano has also been a member of the Automotive manage...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, has announced the appointment of Jeff Vining as its new executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary, effective March 2. Vining, who brings over 20 years of extensive legal expertise in corporate governance, M&A, risk management and more, will oversee all aspects of the company's legal, corporate governance and compliance functions. He will directly report to Shane O'Kel...

Blink Charging Co., a US-based owner, operator, provider and manufacturer of electric vehicle charging equipment and services, has announced a significant leadership transition with Michael Battaglia stepping into the role of president and CEO, effective immediately. This transition follows the planned retirement of Brendan Jones. Previously serving as the company's COO, Battaglia is set to lead the company through its next phase of growth and innovation in the EV infrastructure and energy re...

German components supplier and filtration expert MANN+HUMMEL has announced a significant shift in its leadership structure within the Automotive Aftermarket Americas group. Rodrigo Reyes has been reappointed to lead the aftermarket business in the Americas as the senior vice president of Automotive Aftermarket Americas. In his role, Reyes will be responsible for overseeing aftermarket activities across North and South America. His responsibilities will encompass managing engineering, sales an...

German components supplier and filtration expert MANN+HUMMEL has announced the appointment of Lisa Schiffgens as the new director of Corporate Relations, effective immediately. In this significant role, Schiffgens will oversee both internal and external communications, working directly under the guidance of Chief Marketing Officer Géraldine Tenten. Schiffgens brings a wealth of experience in communications and marketing to MANN+HUMMEL, having previously served as a spokesperson for t...

The Freudenberg Group, a Germany-based global technology conglomerate, has recently announced a major reorganization of its management board, effective Jan. 1, with the aim of fostering innovation and growth amid a tough economic backdrop. The revamped leadership team is now led by Matthias Sckuhr as the new CEO, Kerstin Borrs as the CFO, and Gary VanWambeke stepping into the newly expanded role of chief technology officer (CTO), which now encompasses the responsibilities previously asso...

Auveco, a distributor of fasteners to the automotive body hardware aftermarket and general industrial maintenance, repair, and operations space, has announced the appointment of Ed Gerber as its new CEO, starting Jan. 6. Auveco is a portfolio company of GHK Capital Partners LP, a middle-market private equity firm. Gerber has a rich background in industrial distribution, having previously led Summit Electric Supply as its president and CEO, a role in which he oversaw the company...

RumbleOn, which calls itself the largest powersports retailer in North America, announced a series of leadership changes on Jan. 13. Michael Quartieri, previously the chairman of the board of directors, has been appointed CEO, taking over from Michael Kennedy who has stepped down from both his role as CEO and as a member of the board of directors. Cameron Tkach, who served as the vice president of Dealership Operations, has been promoted to executive vice president and COO. Additionally,...

DRiV, the aftermarket and ride-performance division of Tenneco, has appointed John Perrin, a seasoned professional with a robust background in the global aftermarket, particularly with Tenneco, as the vice president and general manager for DRiV Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Perrin will operate from the DRiV European headquarters located in Kontich, Belgium. Bringing over 28 years of experience within the industry, Perrin has held various significant roles, culminating most recently...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, has announced the addition of three new members to its advisory board for 2025. The newly appointed members are Cal Ganda from Continental ContiTech, serving as the Aftermarket lead; John Hanighen, the president and CEO of Cloyes; and Emily Poladian, the president of Bridgestone Mobility Solutions. Their inclusion is aimed a...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, announced that it has appointed Shweta Bhatia as executive vice president and chief technology officer, effective immediately. Advance’s current Chief Technology Officer Sri Donthi will remain with the company for a period to assist in the transition.  “Shweta’s history of successfully executing transformational programs that focus on speed, efficiency, and providing quality solutions to cus...

Multibrand in-vehicle data provider Caruso announced that as part of its leadership transition, Norbert Dohmen, the company's managing director, is set to leave his role on Feb. 17 to embrace a new opportunity as the global managing director at Innovation Group. Following this departure, Marina Ribke, who was recently appointed as the chief data and technology officer (CDTO) at TecAlliance, will take on the role of managing director at Caruso, starting her tenure on Jan. 1. Ribke is pois...

Highline Warren, a US-based supplier of consumable and maintenance products for the automotive aftermarket, has announced significant changes in its executive leadership. As part of the move, Brad Moreschi, who has served as the company's CFO since 2021, has been named president and COO, effective Jan. 13, 2025. The move follows the realignment of the executive team aimed at enhancing customer value and positioning the company for future success, the release added. Ken Chrisman, the outgoing ...

Dorman Products has announced the appointment of Tayfun Uner as president, Light Duty. In this newly-created role, Uner will be responsible for driving strategic growth and overseeing all commercial and operational aspects of Dorman’s largest business segment. In a statement, Dorman CEO Kevin Olsen praised Uner's extensive experience and his anticipated contribution to the continued success of the Light Duty business segment. The appointment marks the completion of a segment transition with...

Liqui Moly has announced that Marco Esser will assume the role of marketing director following the retirement of Peter Baumann on Jan. 1. Baumann retires after a career spanning 39 years. Esser previously held the position of deputy marketing director at the company. Baumann's journey at Liqui Moly started on Jan. 1, 1986, as an assistant to the management, and he played a pivotal role in developing the company's Marketing department. Under his guidance, Liqui Moly expanded its operation...

Schaeffler India announced the appointment of Sharad Bhatia as the new head of Vehicle Lifetime Solutions (VLS), beginning Dec. 2, according to a press release dated Dec. 20. With over two decades of experience in the automotive parts industry, Bhatia's expertise, especially in the aftermarket service parts sector, is expected to significantly contribute to the expansion and enhancement of the company's VLS business segment, which focuses on improving vehicle longevity and promoting sustainab...

Last week, Forvia’s board of directors announced that Patrick Koller will step down as the CEO of the French supplier on March 1, 2025. Koller will be replaced by Martin Fischer, who was appointed as deputy CEO with effect from Dec. 6, 2024. Fischer brings to the table more than 25 years of experience in the automotive supplier industry. Most recently, Fischer served as a member of the ZF Group management board. He left the German supplier’s board of management in November. “Mar...

LKQ Corp. has announced significant changes to its board of directors as part of its ongoing board refreshment process, according to a press release dated Dec. 11. The company revealed that James S. Metcalf will join the board as an independent director starting from Dec. 11. This appointment coincides with the announcement that Dominick Zarcone has decided not to stand for reelection and will retire at the conclusion of his term during the company's 2025 annual meeting. Following Zarcone's d...

NexaMotion Group (NMG), a US-based company offering solutions to simplify complex vehicle repair, announced that it has made a significant addition to its executive leadership team by appointing Paul DeSiero as the new CFO, according to a press release dated Dec. 4. DeSiero, who brings over two decades of experience in finance and corporate strategy from the automotive aftermarket industry, notably from Dealer Tire and SimpleTire, is set to oversee various critical functions, including f...

XL Parts and The Parts House have elevated Vikrant Aggarwal to the position of president and COO, according to a report by Aftermarket News dated Nov. 26. Aggarwal, who initially joined the firm as COO in October, will focus on delivering exceptional value to customers, expanding market presence and driving sustainable growth under the leadership of Mike Odell, the CEO of XL Parts, The Parts House and Marubeni Automotive Aftermarket Holdings. Odell will remain president and CEO of Marubeni...

Dana Inc. has announced significant leadership and strategic changes, including the appointment of R. Bruce McDonald as chairman and CEO, effective immediately, according to a press release dated Nov. 25.  McDonald, who has been a Dana board director since 2014, succeeds James Kamsickas following Kamsickas' retirement. Kamsickas, credited with leading the company through challenging times and achieving substantial growth, will remain as an advisor through March 2025 to ensure a smoo...

Polaris, a US-based powersports company, has announced that Andy Williams will be appointed as the president of Parts, Garments and Accessories (PG&A) and Aftermarket, with effect from Jan. 1, 2025, according to a press release dated Nov. 22, 2024. Williams replaces Steve Eastman, the current president who is set to retire on Dec. 31, 2024. Williams, who has been with Polaris since 2013, brings a wealth of experience from his prior roles, including his work at Advance Auto Parts and ...

HCI Equity Partners, a US-based private equity firm focusing on the lower middle market, has named Matt Johnson as the CEO of Driven Distribution Group, its new automotive aftermarket distribution platform, according to a press release dated Nov. 19. Distribution Group is a warehouse distributor of automotive aftermarket hard parts, consumables and accessories. This announcement follows shortly after Driven Distribution's endeavors including the acquisition of the auto parts and accessories d...

Syncron, a provider of AI-based aftermarket and original equipment manufacturer aftersales software, has announced that it has appointed Claire Rychlewski as its new chief revenue officer (CRO), according to a press release dated Nov. 19. In her role, Rychlewski will oversee the sales, customer success, marketing and strategic partnership aspects of the company. This move comes as Syncron continues to equip equipment manufacturers with comprehensive platforms for their service life-cycle...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, has announced the appointment of Jon Gentile as the new vice president of Legislative Affairs, according to a press release dated Nov. 11. With an extensive background in advocacy and government relations, including his most recent role as the chief advocacy officer for the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (P...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, announced significant changes to its traditional sales team ahead of its participation in the recently concluded Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas, according to a press release dated Oct. 31. The move included the promotion of Craig Meadows and the hiring of Jake Boggs. The company said Meadows is an industry veteran with more than 28 years of ...

BorgWarner Inc. announced a significant leadership change set to take place on Feb. 6, 2025, as Joseph Fadool, currently the executive vice president and COO, will assume the role of president and CEO. This transition comes as Frédéric Lissalde, the current president and CEO, prepares for retirement and will step down from the board of directors. To facilitate a smooth transition, Lissalde will serve in an advisory capacity until Aug. 30, 2025. Alexis P. Michas, non-executive chairman of th...

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a US-based trade organization for the automotive aftermarket industry, has announced leadership appointments to better address the evolving needs of the automotive aftermarket industry, according to a press release dated Oct. 17. As part of the move, Jim Moore has assumed the role of vice president, OEM and Product Development, leading efforts at SEMA Garage facilities in Diamond Bar, Calif., and Plymouth, Mich., to aid in product development...

Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a European automotive aftermarket distributor, has announced a significant leadership shift within its German business unit with Fabian Roberg, who has been the managing director of AAG's German operations and is set to resign by the end of October, according to a press release dated Oct. 14. Since AAG's acquisition of Roberg's family business in 2015, he has been instrumental in growing the German unit's revenue from €150 million to over half a billion...

Dana Inc., the Ohio, US-based global supplier of drivetrain and propulsion systems as well as aftermarket solutions, has announced the appointment of Seth Metzger as the new senior vice president and chief technology officer (CTO), taking over from Christophe Dominiak, who is retiring, according to a press release dated Oct. 9. Metzger has spent over two decades at Dana, and his career at the company has been marked by several key positions, including senior vice president of Electrification ...

Moss Motors and Rimmer Bros, both global suppliers of replacement and restoration parts for British marque vehicles, have announced that following their merger earlier in 2024, they have appointed Ben Smart as Global CEO, according to a press release dated Sept. 30. Smart, a leader in the automotive aftermarket sector, will oversee global expansion and innovation for the companies, which serve over 240,000 customers in 150 countries, the release added.  Under Smart's le...

Phinia, the spinoff company of the fuel systems and aftermarket segments of Michigan, US-based powertrain technologies supplier BorgWarner, announced that it has appointed David Illes as the director of Aftermarket and OES Sales, Marketing and Training for its Delphi, Delco Remy and Hartridge brands in North America, according to a press release dated Oct. 1. Illes is tasked with spearheading the strategy and execution for his teams, aligning with the company's overarching vision and val...

California, US-based charging-point operator (CPO) ChargePoint has announced the appointment of David Vice as chief revenue officer, according to a press release dated Sept. 16. The company, recognized for its extensive array of networked charging solutions for electric vehicles, has brought in Vice to spearhead growth initiatives, especially within the global Sales and Marketing departments. In a statement, Rick Wilmer, CEO of ChargePoint, expressed confidence in Vice's appointment, highl...

SKF Group has announced that Olaf Henning has been appointed SKF Group's general manager and head of Global Automotive Aftermarket, effective mid November, according to a press release dated Sept. 12. He takes over from Philipp Herlein who has become the managing director of the Global SKF Lubrication & MPT Division. Henning previously served as executive vice president at Mahle Group, where he was responsible for strategic and operational management of the company's Afterm...

US-based The Timken Co., a global manufacturer in engineered bearings and industrial motion products, announced that it has appointed Tarak Mehta as president and CEO, according to a press release dated Sept. 5. Mehta, who brings with him a wealth of experience from his tenure at ABB, where he was a member of the group executive committee and president of its Motion business, was also elected to Timken's board of directors. Mehta's appointment comes after a thorough search process by the...

NexaMotion Group (NMG), a US-based company offering solutions to simplify complex vehicle repair, has announced the expansion of its executive team with the appointment of Erik St. Pierre as the president of its subsidiary, Transend Auto Tech, according to a press release dated Aug. 29. This move is aimed at bolstering the adoption and growth of Transend's platform within the automotive sector. St. Pierre, who comes from a strong background in the automotive parts e-commerce industry, pr...

German oil, additives and car-care specialist Liqui Moly announced that it is making strategic appointments to its management team to address future challenges and foster international growth and customer focus, according to a press release dated Aug. 21. As part of the move, Salvatore Coniglio, who has been with the company for nearly 23 years, has been appointed as managing director while continuing in his role as export director. The duo of managing directors, Günter Hiermaier and Uli Wel...

UK-based manufacturer of aftermarket emissions products, BM Catalysts, announced that it has recently appointed Tom Vallé as its newest senior marketing manager, according to a press release dated Aug. 24. Vallé, who comes with an extensive background in automotive marketing and sales, has been brought on board to enhance the BM Catalysts brand through his comprehensive experience in the automotive sector, including both aftermarket and dealership industries. His responsibilities include ma...

Mann+Hummel, a global filtration technology company, has announced Hanno Höhn has been appointed as the chief performance officer, a role in which he will report directly to Kurk Wilks, the company's president and CEO, according to a press release dated Aug. 13. Höhn, who is also the managing director of Mann+Hummel's German entity, will maintain his current responsibilities while taking on this new position. As chief performance officer, his role will focus on driving the ongoing developme...

US-based automotive parts distributor Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) announced the appointment of Jenn Hulett as executive vice president and chief people officer, effective Aug. 19, in a press release issued on the same date. Hulett's appointment follows the retirement announcement of Jim Neill, who has committed to continue in an advisory capacity until Sept. 30 to facilitate a smooth transition. In her new role, Hulett will oversee GPC's global human resources operations, contributing to the comp...

High Bar Brands (HBB), a North American supplier of heavy-duty truck parts, has announced the strengthening of its sales leadership and senior team with the appointment of Mike Selick as vice president of Sales, according to a press release dated Aug. 13. This move comes alongside Derek Quys' elevation to the role of senior vice president of Sales and Business Development. HBB, recognized for its five leading brands — Minimizer, Premier Manufacturing, Dieter's, Panelite and Viking Mud ...

US-based Aesop Auto Parts, a distributor of automotive parts and accessories founded in 2021 by affiliates of private equity firms Outerbound Capital and American Pacific Group, has announced the addition of Rob Wagman to its board of directors, according to a press release dated Aug. 12. Wagman brings over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, including his tenure as president and CEO of LKQ Corp. from 2012 to 2017. During his leadership at LKQ, Wagman escalated the company's re...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, has announced the appointment of Rob Allerton as the vice president of Commercial Vehicle Membership, according to a press release dated July 31. In this new role, Allerton will focus on enhancing the support for the commercial vehicle sector within the MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers group through strategic planning, business ...

Finland-based original equipment (OE) and replacement tire manufacturer Nokian Tyres has announced the appointment of Paolo Pompei as its new president and CEO, with an effective start date by Jan. 1, 2025, at the latest, according to a press release dated July 20. This decision follows the notification from the current President and CEO Jukka Moisio of his intention to retire in 2024, as communicated on March 27. Moisio, who has been at the helm since 2020, will continue ...

Zack Heisey, Dana Inc.'s senior manager of Aftermarket Engineering, has been appointed to the Toledo Jeep Fest (TJF) board of directors, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his tenure with Dana and his involvement with TJF since its foundational planning stages, according to a press release dated July 23. With over 14 years at Dana, Heisey has significantly contributed to the development of notable Dana products such as the Ultimate Dana 60, Ultimate Dana 44 and Ultimate Dana 80 axl...

In a press release dated July 23, Sogefi announced that Frédéric Sipahi has resigned as CEO and general manager in order to undertake a new and different professional project. Sipahi’s resignation from his role as CEO will be effective at the end of July, and from his role as general manager at the end of August. Sogefi has decided to activate the noncompete clause provided under his employment contract for a duration of one year, which entails the payment of a total g...

LKQ Corp., a Chicago-based provider of alternative and specialty parts and services for automobiles and other vehicles, announced the appointment of Andrew Clarke to the company’s board of directors as a new independent director, effective immediately, according to a press release dated July 22. With the addition of Clarke, the LKQ board will consist of 10 members, eight of whom are independent. Clarke brings significant logistics, transportation, operations and financial expertis...

Porsche Cars Canada Ltd. (PCL) announced it appointed Matthias Wacker the new head of the aftersales department, taking over from Alexander Pretsch, who has now assumed the role of director, customer relations at Porsche AG, according to a press release dated July 2. PCL is the exclusive importer and distributor of the Porsche 911, 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman, Taycan, Panamera, and the Cayenne and Macan. Wacker's transition to the Canadian subsidiary comes after a tenure at Porsche AG in Germa...

Diesel Technic UK, a supplier of automotive parts and accessories, has recently made several strategic appointments to its sales team, reflecting the company's ongoing commitment to expanding its customer base in the UK and enhancing support for partners and end-user fleets, according to a press release dated July 9. As part of the move, Luke Winship and Kevin Petrie have been appointed sales managers for the Central region and the North and Northern Ireland region, respectively. These appoin...

Automotive supplier Continental has announced that Egemen Atış is set to assume the role of head of Strategy, Analysis and Marketing (SAM) for Continental's Tire Replacement business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region, based out of Hanover, Germany, according to a press release dated July 1. Atış will be responsible for a diverse range of functions including Product Management, Marketing Communications, Public Relations, eBusiness, Business Analytics, Pricing, a...

Axalta Coating Systems Ltd., a global coatings company, has announced the appointment of Chris Evans as vice president of Global Strategy and Colleen Lubic as vice president of Investor Relations, according to a press release dated July 9. The company said the move signals a strategic strengthening of its leadership team. These appointments are effective immediately, highlighting the company's focus on enhancing its strategic planning and investor relations. Evans, who previ...

US-based NTN Bearings Corporation, the parent entity of BCA Bearings and Bower Bearings, announced that it has expanded its automotive aftermarket sales team by appointing Mike Ferris as the regional sales manager for the Central Region, according to a press release dated June 27. Charles Harris, vice president of Sales & Marketing – Automotive Aftermarket for NTN, expressed enthusiasm over Ferris's appointment, highlighting his significant experience in the automotive and heavy-duty af...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that Michael Løve announced his resignation from the Board of Directors at MEKO to dedicate his efforts entirely to his position as CEO of the Danish energy company OK, according to a press release dated July 2. Løve, who joined MEKO's board in 2020 while also serving as OK's CEO, made this decision following the recent approval by Danish competition authorities of OK's significant investment...

Phinia, the spinoff company of the fuel systems and aftermarket segments of Michigan-based powertrain technologies supplier BorgWarner, has announced the appointment of Russell Stebbins as the general manager of its North American aftermarket business, according to a press release dated June 28. In this role, Stebbins will be responsible for leading the North American aftermarket team and spearheading the development of sales strategies targeting independent aftermarket and original equipment...

Methode Electronics, Inc., a global supplier specializing in custom-engineered solutions for user interface, LED lighting systems and power distribution applications, has announced Jon DeGaynor's appointment as its new president, CEO and member of the board of directors, effective July 15, according to a press release dated June 25. DeGaynor, succeeding interim CEO Kevin Nystrom from AlixPartners LLP since May 7, brings an extensive 35-year career history in engineered-products businesses to ...

Akebono Brake Corporation, based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, has announced on June 28, 2024, the appointment of Erick Kinnunen as the new regional sales manager. Kinnunen is said to bring to the role an extensive career spanning 40 years in aftermarket sales, training and management, reflecting a deep-seated passion and knowledge in the automotive sector — a passion fueled by his early exposure to car restoration through his grandfather, the release added. The company says Kinnunen's ...

GSP North America, a manufacturer and distributor in the automotive aftermarket, has announced the appointment of Evan Bauer as director of Key Accounts, according to a press release dated June 24. In this role, Bauer will be responsible for managing and growing key accounts in the retail segment for GSP's lines across North America. Bauer's experience as an aftermarket sales and product management leader brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the GSP team, the company said. "G...

Navistar, Inc., based in Lisle, Ill., announced the appointment of Dan Kayser as the new executive vice president of commercial operations, effective July 1, according to a press release dated June 18. This addition to the executive leadership team is part of Navistar's strategic effort to bolster its position in the commercial transportation industry and to embrace change management, the release added. Kayser's role will involve collaboration with the executive team to enhance customer satis...

Continental Aftermarket US, a supplier of original equipment (OE)-engineered aftermarket replacement parts and advanced diagnostics, announced that it has appointed Stefan Feder as the new head of Automotive Aftermarket & OES for North America, according to a press release dated June 13. The company said Feder brings 20 years of industry experience, having served in different roles at Continental, Continental Tire and Continental ContiTech since his joining in 2004. His recent p...

Holley Performance Brands, a US-based automotive aftermarket performance solutions company, has announced the appointment of Charan Mann as chief information officer, according to a press release dated June 12. Mann's role will be to direct the IT strategy of Holley, developing and implementing a technology roadmap based on industry best practices. She will be using innovative technologies to improve the online experience for Holley's retailer and distributor network, as well as the...

ZKW Group, a specialist in innovative premium lighting systems and electronics, announced that Andreas Nix has assumed the position of COO of the company on June 1, 2024, succeeding Stefan Hornivius, who is leaving the company for personal reasons, according to a press release dated June 3. Until his replacement is found, Nix will also continue in his current role as general plant manager of ZKW Lichtsysteme GmbH. The company said he has demonstrated impressive management ability within the Z...

Motorcar Parts of America Inc. (MPAA) has announced the appointment of Dan Lelchuk as director of Business Development for brake products, according to a press release dated June 6. The company said Lelchuk is an industry veteran who previously served as the president, CEO and co-founder of Centric Parts. His role at MPAA will focus on supporting and enhancing brake calipers, brake pads and brake rotor product offerings. “Dan Lelchuk’s background complements the company’s f...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America that serves both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers, announced that Ken Bush, senior vice president and chief merchant, will retire from the company after nearly 20 years and be succeeded by Bruce Starnes, who has been named executive vice president and chief merchant, effective June 24, 2024, according to a press release dated May 29. Starnes, 48, who will lead all aspects of merchandising st...

FIGIEFA, the Europe-based international federation of independent automotive aftermarket distributors, announced that it has elected a new board of directors during its General Assembly in Istanbul, according to a press release dated May 22. The board comprises professionals from national associations and automotive spare parts distribution companies across Europe. The newly appointed board members are Mads Engberg as president (representing AUTIG from Denmark), Bastian Müller as vice presid...

Luca Parasacco has been appointed head of Maserati Europe, effective May 20. This appointment comes as part of a wider restructuring within Maserati Commercial, which aims to cover the brand's objectives and strengthen the team headed by global Chief Commercial Officer Luca Delfino, who was appointed in January. Parasacco has been a part of the group since 1997, and in his previous role as head of global DISTRIGO, he led a distribution network supplying original spare parts to 11 brands under th...

US-based automotive components original equipment manufacturer, and aftermarket ride control and emission-products manufacturer, Tenneco, announced that former Gov. Chris Christie was appointed to its Board of Directors, effective May 30, 2024, according to a press release dated May 21. The company says Christie has extensive leadership experience. On Jan. 19, 2010, he was inaugurated as the 55th Governor of the State of New Jersey and re-elected with 60% of the vote in November of 2013 and s...

Dayco, a US-based engine products and drive-systems supplier for the automotive and aftermarket industries, announced the appointment of several strategic leadership positions, as well as the relocation of the company’s headquarters to Birmingham, Mich., according to a press release dated May 1. The position includes the appointment of Audrey Harling as vice president and managing director of N.A. Aftermarket and Global Strategy and Planning. Harling has a career steeped in strategic planni...

Genuine Parts Co. (GPC), a global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has announced that Paul Donahue will transition from chairman and CEO to executive chairman, effective June 3, according to a press release dated April 29. At that time, William Stengel, currently president and COO, will succeed Donahue as president and CEO of GPC and will serve as a member of the board of directors. "The board is confident that Will is the right person to lead GPC into the future an...

US-based aftermarket repair facility provider FullSpeed Automotive has announced the appointment of Stacey Pool as the new chief marketing officer, effective May 28, according to a press release dated May 1. FullSpeed Automotive owns brands such as Grease Monkey, SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service, and Kwik Kar. Pool brings over two decades of marketing and e-commerce experience with industry-leading brands including Nike, Vail Resorts and most recently, Noodles & Company. Throughout h...

OCTO, a Rome-based company involved in telematics and data analytics services for the Insurance, Fleet Management, and Intelligent Mobility sectors, has announced the appointment of Corrado Sciolla as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and member of the Board of Directors. Sciolla, previously general manager of Wind, President of BT Group Europe and CEO of Cedacri, will lead the global company from Italy, with the aim of consolidating its leadership in the connected mobility sector. He is ...

Holley Performance Brands, a US-based automotive aftermarket performance solutions company, has announced that Chet Baker has joined the organization as senior vice president of Sales, according to a press release dated April 10. Baker is among several new sales leaders to recently join the organization as the company strengthens its sales team to engage enthusiasts more directly across the company’s consumer vertical groupings: Domestic Muscle, Modern Truck & Off-Road, Euro & ...

Eucon Americas has announced the appointment of Paul Zorrilla as managing director Latin America, according to a press release dated March 22. In his new role, he will continue to build up the local presence of the automotive division in Latin America and help Eucon to systematically expand its American network. Eucon Latin America is a fully owned subsidiary of Eucon Americas LLC, based in Atlanta. Zorrilla was announced as regional director when the subsidiary first opened in April 202...

US-based automotive aftermarket supplier Transtar Holding Co. has announced the promotion of Anna Gluck to the position of chief human resources officer to support the company's rapid growth plans through organic expansion and targeted acquisitions, according to a press release dated April 1. Gluck has been with Transtar since 2020, where she led the company's total rewards program and employee engagement efforts, with a strategic focus on employee training and development programs, and attra...

Holley Performance Brands, a company involved in automotive aftermarket performance solutions, has announced the addition of two new senior leaders who will focus on enhancing the customer experience across Holley’s portfolio of brands, according to a press release dated March 26. The company said that Charlie Taylor and Will Robbins, who collectively represent nearly 50 years of automotive industry experience, have joined the organization as vice president of Digital Strategy and vice pres...

Hitachi Astemo Americas, Inc, a manufacturer of engine management, electric powertrain, and integrated vehicle controls, announced that Jose Gonzalez has been named the new Marketing Manager for the Hitachi Astemo Americas Aftermarket Division, according to a press release dated Mar. 21. Gonzalez steps into the role that was vacated by Hannah Hua, who will be taking on a new role as Project Manager at Hitachi Astemo Americas Aftermarket Division. As Marketing Manager for the Hitachi Astemo...

Stoneridge, a US-based manufacturer of electrical and electronic components, modules and systems for the automotive, commercial vehicle and off-highway industries, announced the appointment of Troy Cooprider to the position of chief technology officer, according to a press release dated March 14. Cooprider will set the company’s strategic technology and product roadmaps, and support future innovation and growth through oversight of the global engineering function. “We have a cle...

The supervisory board of Schaeffler AG has agreed to renew the contracts of Executive Board Members Matthias Zink and Jens Schüler for five years each, effective Jan. 1, 2025, according to a press release dated Feb. 23, 2024. Zink has been a member of the executive board and CEO of Schaeffler’s Automotive Technologies division since Jan. 1, 2017. Schüler was appointed to the executive board on Jan. 1, 2022, serving in that capacity as CEO of the Group’s global Automotive Aftermarket div...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that its nomination committee has proposed Dominick Zarcone as the new chairman of the board in Meko AB at the Annual General Meeting 2024, according to a press release dated Feb. 19. Zarcone currently serves as the president and CEO of LKQ Corp., listed on the Nasdaq, and has an extensive background with several senior executive roles in major corporations, the release added. According...

German automotive supplier Hella, which operates under the umbrella brand Forvia, announced that it has appointed Philippe Vienney as CFO of Forvia Hella and appointed him as a new member of the management board in this function, according to a press release dated Feb. 7. Vienney will take up the post on March 1. He will take over as CFO from Bernard Schäferbarthold, CEO at Forvia Hella, who is acting CFO until Vienney takes office. Economist Vienney has been with Forvia, the world's se...

US-based automotive aftermarket supplier and remanufacturer BBB Industries has announced two strategic leadership changes, according to a press release dated Feb. 12. John Boyer has been appointed president of the company's Undercar division, after serving as president of Terrepower, the innovative Solar System and Electric Vehicle Battery Life-cycle Management division. The company believes Boyer’s product and market insights, and hands-on approach are ideally suited to lead BBB’s Underc...

French mobility group Mobivia has announced that a new board of directors for the company, which includes 11 brands and around 20 start-ups, was elected during the annual General Meeting that was held on Jan. 27, according to a press release dated Feb. 2. The new board has appointed Romain Sartorius, grandson of Norauto founder Eric Derville, as chairman and CEO of Mobivia for the next four years.  Sartorius succeeds Fabien Derville, son of Eric Derville and chairman and CEO of Mobivia f...

US-based paints, coatings and specialty-materials manufacturer PPG announced that Irene Tasi, currently senior vice president and chief growth officer (CGO), will become senior vice president of Industrial Coatings. In addition, Alisha Bellezza, currently vice president of Automotive Coatings, will become senior vice president of Automotive Coatings, according to a press release dated Jan. 30. Both appointments are effective March 1, 2024. Tasi was named CGO and a member of the company’s op...

Lithia & Driveway (LAD), an automotive retailer in North America that also provides a suite of financing, leasing, repair and maintenance options, announced that it has promoted Adam Chamberlain to chief customer officer (CCO), according to a press release dated Jan. 23. With the foundational elements of the LAD Strategy now in place, Chamberlain's expanded role will involve innovating the customer experience across the company’s extensive network, including the Driveway experience, Gre...

Holley Inc., a US-based automotive aftermarket performance solutions firm, has announced that Philip Dobbs has joined the organization as senior vice president of Customer Experience Marketing, according to a press release dated Jan. 18. Dobbs has taken on a newly created role focused on providing the best possible brand, product and service engagements across the company’s business-to-business and business-to-consumer (B2C) touchpoints. “Philip is a dynamic marketing leader wit...

Tenneco has announced the appointment of Marc McAllister as Öhlins Racing’s new vice president and general manager, and Tom Wittenschlaeger to the newly created position of general manager, North America, according to a press release dated Jan. 17. McAllister replaces Henrik Johansson, who announced in 2023 that he would retire after nearly 30 years as a member of the Öhlins team. Both McAllister and Wittenschlaeger will be charged with capturing opportunities for growth for the European ...

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has announced that Mark Stewart has been elected CEO and president, effective Jan. 29, according to a press release dated Jan. 18. He will succeed Richard Kramer, who previously announced his planned retirement from the company following 24 years of service, including 14 years as chairman, CEO and president. On the effective date, Laurette Koellner, independent lead director of Goodyear’s board since 2019, will become non-executive board chair, and Stewart wi...

Metelli Group, an Italy-based automobile parts manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Fabrizio Sanna as its new general manager, according to a press release dated Jan. 17.  The company said that Sanna will be part of the Metelli SpA management team as general manager with effect from Jan. 1. Sanna has proven long-lasting experience in automotive multinational manufacturer companies holding top management positions and worldwide experience in leading strategy roles, acc...

German components supplier and filtration expert Mann+Hummel has announced that as of April 1, Mann+Hummel has appointed Henk in ’t Hof as president Life Sciences & Environment (LS&E), according to a press release dated Jan. 3. In his role, in ‘t Hof will be responsible for Mann+Hummel’s global Air Filtration and Water Membrane Solutions business. He will report directly to Kurk Wilks, president and CEO of the Mann+Hummel Group. Dutch-born in ‘t Hof has gained over 30 years...

Australian automotive aftermarket parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts has announced that it has appointed Gerard Belleville as its new CEO, following John Blanchard's assumption of the role of executive chairman, according to a press release dated Jan. 11. Belleville brings extensive experience in various industry sectors, including 27 years as an audit partner in several chartered accounting firms and 17 years with Deloitte Australia, where he held several leadership roles. Blanchard, ...