The Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium announced the retirement of current chairman Dave Caracci and the appointment of Dennis Welvaert as the new chairman. Caracci, who has served as chairman of GAAS since 2007, will work together with Welvaert during the next three months. The transition of leadership will be completed during Industry Week in Las Vegas when Welvaert takes over full-time as chairman on Nov. 1.
“I’m thrilled to announce that Denny will be taking over as GAAS chairman,” says Mort Schwartz, founder and chairman emeritus. “I know he will carry on the great tradition of keeping GAAS at the forefront of the aftermarket. Dave Caracci did an outstanding job, and I’m confident that Denny will do the same.”
Welvaert has been president of the North American aftermarket division of Dayco since 2003 and will officially retire from the company at the end of August. He has been with the company for 30 years and has held numerous executive-level positions in the OEM, industrial and aftermarket divisions of Dayco. He is a recipient of the AWDA Pursuit of Excellence Award and Northwood University’s Aftermarket Management Education Award, and holds the designation of Master Automotive Aftermarket Professional from Northwood University’s University of the Aftermarket. He’s held numerous leadership positions with various aftermarket associations.
A former executive of Bosch and other aftermarket companies, Caracci’s industry experience includes service as past president of the National Engine Parts Manufacturers Association, past chairman of the Engine Repower Council, past president of the Automotive Sales Council, director on the board of the Car Care Council and past chairman of AAIA.
