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Dick Morgan Retires as John Washbish Takes Presidency of Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance

On Jan. 1, John Washbish officially assumed the position as president and CEO of the Alliance. He brings with him more than 35 years of experience in the aftermarket serving in various positions with industry manufacturers.

For more than 15 years, Richard (Dick) Morgan has served as president and CEO of Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance (Alliance). On his retirement, effective Dec. 31, 2009, Morgan culminated a 48-year career of successes in the industry.

“I’ve been fortunate to have spent the final years of my career at the Alliance,” said Morgan. “This is the best group around, and I’m not just saying that because of any contributions I might have made; I truly believe the membership is the best in the industry because of their professionalism and continuing commitment to excellence. I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished together and I know under the leadership of John Washbish, the Alliance will continue to expand and grow even further.”

Washbish was national sales manager of Michigan Engine Bearings (1982-1986) and AEC Universal Joints (1975-1981). From 1987 to 2000, he was president of Clevite Engine Parts, acquired in 1998 by Dana Corp.

In 2000, Washbish became president of the Dana Under Hood Group and in April of 2003 became president of the new Customer Relationship Management Group. In late 2004, Dana sold its aftermarket business to Cypress Group, a private equity investment firm. The new company was renamed Affinia Group and included WIX Global Filtration, Brake Parts, Affinia do Brazil and Quinton Hazell. Washbish was given dual responsibilities and held the titles of president, customer relationship management and president, Under Vehicle Group. He also served as a director on the Affinia Group board.

In his service to the industry, Washbish’s experience includes stints as president of the Automotive Sales Council and National Engine Parts Manufacturer's Association. He has served as chairman of the Young Executive Society and the Manufacturer's Advisory Council of AWDA. He has held seats on the board of directors for the Motor Equipment Manufacturers Association, the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association. He served on the Michigan Board of Governors for Northwood University, as well as on the school's Aftermarket Curriculum Advisory Council.

Washbish has been recognized for his leadership with numerous awards including the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association Leader of the Year. He also received Northwood's Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award, and twice was recognized as the University's Alumni of the Year.

“Dick has done a tremendous job leading the Alliance; I am honored to follow in his footsteps,” said Washbish. “I’m ready for the challenge and delighted to have started this next chapter of my life in San Antonio and with the Alliance. Over the last year, we’ve conducted a smooth management transition and I look forward to continuing to work with the shareholders of Alliance and all of our vendor partners.”