Navistar Scores Coup, Hires Bill Kozek

LISLE, Ill. — Navistar International has appointed Bill Kozek as president of the company’s North America Truck and Parts business. He succeeds Jack Allen, who was promoted to chief operating officer last month.

Kozek, 50, joins Navistar following a 26-year career at PACCAR, where he most recently served as vice president and general manager of Peterbilt, responsible for all aspects of Peterbilt’s U.S. and Canadian operations. He held the same position at Kenworth from October 2008 to June 2011, having begun his career as an accountant for Peterbilt in 1987.

“Bill is a recognized and respected leader in the North America truck industry, having successfully run both the Peterbilt and Kenworth truck divisions during his career,” said Troy Clarke, Navistar president and chief executive officer. “We look forward to the new perspectives and expanded strategic thinking he will bring to our core North America truck and parts business.”

“I am eager to be joining this iconic American company at this exciting point in its history,” Kozek said. “Troy, Jack and the entire Navistar team are executing an impressive turnaround, and with its new product launches, the company is well positioned to begin winning back market share. I look forward to working with them and our dealers in helping to lead the company back to its rightful leadership position.”

Kozek will report to Allen and serve on the company’s senior leadership team.

“I have known Bill for many years and I am thrilled to have a person of his character and industry expertise join our team,” Allen said. “His tremendous experience and capabilities, combined with his winning management style, make him the right person to drive our truck and parts business.”