Engine Parts Group Inc. (EPGI/Engine Pro) has appointed Jesse Jones as president of the engine parts distribution group. Jones has vast experience with both automotive aftermarket and OE suppliers, including senior management positions at MAHLE Clevite, Dana Inc. and Cometic Gaskets.

Engine Pro is the largest engine parts distribution network in the U.S. and Australia, and also has a significant presence in Europe. The group’s independent specialty engine parts distributors operate 37 warehouses and inventory a full line of internal engine components for domestic and import passenger car, light truck, heavy duty, industrial, marine, agricultural and performance applications.

In making the appointment, EPGI chairman, Paul Van Woensel of Engine & Performance Warehouse Inc., said, “We are fortunate to be able to bring someone of Jesse’s caliber to Engine Pro. He has an enviable record of performance in sales and marketing management, product line development, sourcing, and overall operations management. We are confident that Jesse will be an effective and enthusiastic leader.”

Jones will begin his new position on Feb. 10, and will be based in Michigan, close to many of the group’s supplier partners and central to the national Engine Pro distributor network. The group’s headquarters and business office will continue to be located in Wheat Ridge (Denver), Colorado.

Jones will be responsible for the group’s overall leadership, including growth initiatives and strategic planning. His focus will include strengthening the group’s supplier programs and relationships, expanding product line coverage, and developing new market opportunities. He will work closely with the group’s shareholders and Engine Pro staff to expand the company’s private label programs, which provide competitive products, pricing and service to the engine professionals who purchase and support Engine Pro products.