2014 AASA TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE

As a 26-year veteran of the aftermarket, Bill Burns has profound experience on both the auto side and truck side of the industry. He began his career with the Independent Warehouse Distributors, Inc. in New Haven, Connecticut serving as executive director until 2005, when he was named the organization’s chief executive officer. He held that position until 2010 when he became the chief executive officer of Truck Pride Partners, LLC.

 

As CEO of the Independent Warehouse Distributors he was also responsible for both the Auto Pride and Truck Pride divisions, which together comprised an international network of more than 180 members and 800-plus distributions points. An advocate for his members, Bill always sought ways to benefit the downstream customer and help his members become better purchasers, and better providers of programs and products for their ultimate end customers.

 

In August of 2010, Truck Pride Partners, LLC and Heavy Duty America merged to form the current HDA Truck Pride. With this merger, Bill became chief operating officer of the newly formed HDA Truck Pride, North America’s largest independent provider of parts and services to the commercial vehicle aftermarket with over 700 distribution locations and over 400 service facilities.

 

Bill and the group are focused on value-added services. To that point, Bill says its not just about delivering parts, but solving problems and driving technical expertise. Additionally, HDA Truck Pride offers a wide range of training, sales and service support, and marketing programs, which are all focused on growing the business of its members, fleet customers, and service experts.

 

Bill serves the aftermarket providing his expertise and knowledge at various industry gatherings and workshops, as well as frequent interviews with the aftermarket media. Additional industry involvement includes service: 1) as a member of the board of directors for the Council of Fleet Specialists (CFS) from 1999 to 2001; 2) as a board of member for the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association from 2006 to 2008; and 3) as a current member of the Joint Operating Committee of the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week Convention.

 

A native of East Haven, Connecticut, Bill attended and earned degrees from Post College and the University of Hartford.

 

Northwood University is pleased to present the Aftermarket Management Education Award to William R. Burns for his long-time commitment and support to the aftermarket industry.