Genuine Parts Company announced major changes to at the head of its North American operations.
Group president Randy Breaux will retire at the end of the year, and UAP president Alain Masse will take over the newly created role of president for North America Automotive in August.
The announcement noted that Breaux will serve in an advisory role until his retirement to assist in an orderly and seamless transition. GPC recently celebrated 100 years of NAPA at an event in Las Vegas.
“It is with great appreciation we share Randy’s decision to retire. He has been an invaluable asset to GPC throughout his 14 years with the company, including his recent years as Group President, GPC North America,” said Will Stengel, president and CEO of GPC. “His dedication to people and leadership has been instrumental in building strong, trusted relationships across our industrial and automotive segments. Randy has played a key role in the selection process of his successor, showing true character and commitment to GPC. We are deeply grateful for his remarkable contributions and wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life.”
As for Masse, he has been with the company since 2011 when he came on board as executive vice president of heavy vehicle parts division at UAP. He was promoted two years later to executive vice president of NAPA. In 2015, he was named president of UAP.
The announcement noted he “is a highly motivated leader with a deep understanding of the automotive aftermarket industry and NAPA business model.”
In his new role, Masse will oversee the automotive businesses across North America, reporting to Stengel.
“We are thrilled to announce Alain’s promotion to president, North America automotive,” Stengel stated. “This strategic decision helps build on the momentum in our North America automotive business and creates new commercial opportunities given the similar operating strategies.
“Under Alain’s leadership, UAP has successfully partnered with independent owners, suppliers and customers to drive significant improvements in performance and market share. He is widely respected for his collaborative, leadership style, deep commitment to partnership and proven ability to build high-performing, accountable teams.”
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