PACCAR has appointed Preston Feight as its new chief executive.
Feight, who is currently executive vice president, starts the new role on July 1.
He succeeds Ron Armstrong who has served as the company’s boss for five years and is stepping down to retire.
Mark Pigott remains as executive chairman and will continue to provide strategic counsel to the company.
“Preston Feight is an outstanding leader who has made significant contributions to PACCAR’s excellent record of profitable growth and its industry-leading products and services,” Pigott says.
“I congratulate Preston on his promotion to chief executive officer and welcome him to the board. On behalf of the board and all PACCAR employees, I would like to thank Ron Armstrong for his five excellent years of outstanding leadership and strategic vision as PACCAR’s chief executive officer.”
Armstrong’s 25 years with PACCAR has seen the company enhance its global technology leadership. During his tenure as CEO, the company achieved many records, including revenue, net income, and stockholders’ equity, introduced new products and increased market share.
Meanwhile, Feight has been instrumental in PACCAR delivering revenue and profit growth, in addition to having an integral role in the development of many of PACCAR’s vehicle and powertrain products.
He has been with PACCAR for 21 years with leadership roles as president of DAF Trucks, vice president and general manager of Kenworth Truck Company as well as assistant general manager sales and marketing and chief engineer at Kenworth.
Feight earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Northern Arizona University and a master’s degree in engineering management from the University of Colorado.
“This year, PACCAR is celebrating its 114th year and the company is the quality and innovation leader in its industry. PACCAR has an excellent record of outstanding financial performance, industry leading commercial vehicles, as well as innovative aftermarket parts and financial services,” Feight says.
“PACCAR’s technology focus has positioned the company as a leader in advanced powertrains such as diesel, electric and hydrogen fuel cells, as well as sophisticated driver assistance systems and truck connectivity.
“PACCAR’s truck factories and distribution facilities are world class with integrated manufacturing systems. I thank Mark and the Board for the privilege to lead PACCAR and its 28,000 employees in our goal of delivering profitable growth, superb customer service, and excellent shareholder returns,” Feight says.
