LENEXA, Kan. — At last week’s Board of Directors meeting in Chicago, Ill., Dan Freeman, president and CEO of Automotive Parts Associates (APA), announced his intention to retire.
“It is with mixed emotions that I have decided to retire from APA,” Freeman said. "While I’m excited about the leisure that retirement offers, I will miss working for this incredible group in this challenging industry. I am pleased that I had the opportunity to serve APA and its shareholders for the past 23 years. My many positive experiences here, both professional and personal, will always be fondly remembered.”
While no date has been set for the appointment of a successor, the Board of Directors has established a search committee. A lot of thought and planning will go into making certain the right person is placed in this essential position, APA said. The selection process will begin immediately and Freeman will continue to serve as APA’s leader until the transition is complete, APA said.
“Dan’s leadership has been a catalyst in APA’s achievements. He has made a significant difference in the lives of each shareholder. While he won’t be easy to replace, we’re always up for a challenge. With this announcement, we are hopeful that the right candidate will approach us for discussions,” said Robert Duxler, chairman of the board.
Dan joined APA as national sales manager in January 1989 and has served as president and CEO since May of 1999. Dan’s career began in 1964 in Cleveland. He joined his family’s business, MTM Auto Parts Co., after attending The Ohio State University. In the 1970s, Dan developed an auto parts packaging company called Sea-Gate Automotive Distribution Center, which he sold to AI Automotive, a chain of 23 auto parts warehouses. Dan remained as president and relocated the operation to New Orleans. He changed the name to Resource Automotive Products and developed an import, export program, further expanding the product offering.
Duxler will head the search committee. Qualified candidates should visit www.professionalschoice.com, click on careers and submit a resume online. Submit questions to [email protected].
