Dick Morgan Retires as John Washbish Takes Presidency of Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance - Engine Builder Magazine

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

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.”

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