Leadership changes at Volvo Group, NATSO, Harbinger, and Vipar Heavy Duty: key appointments and transitions

Key takeaways:

Key transitions include Lars Stenqvist stepping down as Volvo Group's CTO, with Jens Holtinger set to succeed him in 2025, and Max McBrayer appointed as CEO of NATSO.
Fred DePerez joins Harbinger as SVP of sales, aiming to drive growth and modernization in the electric vehicle sector.
Jim Pennig retires from Vipar Heavy Duty after 20 years, with Joe Meyer stepping in to continue strategic growth initiatives.

Stenqvist will be succeeded by Jens Holtinger, who has held several leadership roles during his more than 25 years at the Volvo Group.

Changes to the Volvo Group executive board

Lars Stenqvist, member of the Volvo Group executive board and chief technology officer, has decided to step down from his current role after nine years of service and continue in the group as a senior leader. The transition will take effect September 1, 2025.

“Lars, in his leadership role, has been instrumental in the group’s positive development and a pioneer on the journey toward more sustainable transport. I deeply value the significant contributions he has made over the years,” Martin Lundstedt, president and CEO, said.

Stenqvist will be succeeded by Jens Holtinger, who has held several leadership roles during his more than 25 years at the Volvo Group. In addition to his current role as EVP of group trucks operations, he has also been responsible for truck manufacturing in Europe and Brazil as well as various truck production plants.

McBrayer succeeds Darren Boyd Schulte, who served as interim CEO since January 2025.

NATSO names Max McBrayer as CEO

NATSO recently announced that Max McBrayer Jr. has been appointed president and CEO of NATSO and president of the NATSO Foundation, effective July 1, succeeding Darren Boyd Schulte, who served as interim CEO since January 2025.

McBrayer brings more than four decades of leadership experience across the fuel retail and transportation energy sectors. He brings an extensive background in transportation energy, having served as the CEO of RaceTrac Petroleum, president of Metroplex Energy, and president of the Ethanol Corporation.

“I am honored to assume the role of NATSO president and CEO at such a pivotal time for the industry and the association,” McBrayer said. “I am committed to working with the NATSO Board of Directors and the leadership team to execute a strategic framework that will drive sustainable growth while strengthening member relationships, positioning NATSO for the future while ensuring the association meets the needs of its members.”

DePerez now oversees Harbinger’s sales and marketing organizations and is responsible for accelerating the company’s growth by increasing volume, market share, and revenue.

Harbinger names Fred DePerez as SVP of sales

Harbinger, a medium-duty electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturer, recently announced that Fred DePerez has joined the company as SVP of sales. DePerez is an industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience in sales, marketing, and product strategy leadership roles for Toyota, Fiat Chrysler (now Stellantis), Nissan, and Hyundai Motor Group.

“Fred brings the kind of proven leadership, market insight, and strong track record of successful go-to-market strategies that position us to scale effectively and lead the next chapter of growth,” John Harris, co-founder and CEO of Harbinger, said.

DePerez now oversees Harbinger’s sales and marketing organizations and is responsible for accelerating the company’s growth by increasing volume, market share, and revenue.

Harbinger is "accelerating the business through dealer network expansion and strategic partnerships," DePerez said. "Now is the time to deliver next-generation products to customers who are looking for a superior vehicle. I look forward to helping lead that effort.”

For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a role in the organization’s growth and success.

Vipar Heavy Duty announces the retirement of Jim Pennig, VP of business development

Vipar Heavy Duty recently announced that Jim Pennig has retired from his role as VP of business development for the Vipar Heavy Duty Family of Companies.

For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a member of the executive management and leadership teams. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including expansion of both the Vipar Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the company’s expansion in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.

“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” Chris Baer, president and CEO of Vipar Heavy Duty, said. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”

Joe Meyer, program manager for the Vipar Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as VP of business development, bringing 35 years of heavy-duty aftermarket sales and business development experience.