MT. LAUREL, NJ- Automotive Resources International (ARI) announced Dec. 22 that President Bill McKee will retire July 31, 2010. Carl Ortell, current executive vice president and chief operating officer, will succeed McKee, effective Jan. 1.

McKee (shown right) started at ARI in 1992 as executive vice president and became president in 1998. During his tenure, ARI grew rapidly and is now ranked number two in the industry in fleet size and number one in customer service. McKee initiated ARI's formal strategic planning program, which today serves as a roadmap for future growth.

"Bill has laid the foundation on which ARI will continue to build," said Mindy Holman, president and CEO, Holman Enterprises, parent company of ARI. "His leadership, keen business sense, and tactical capabilities will be sorely missed."

McKee will assume the role of CEO as of Jan. 1, 2010 through his retirement date.

Holman also announced the promotion of Carl Ortell (shown left) to president effective Jan. 1, 2010. Ortell started his career with Holman Enterprises as an internal auditor in June 1986. He transferred to ARI in 1987 and has served in numerous operations and financial positions, most recently as executive vice president and COO, since Jan. 5.

"Carl has been the architect of our global expansion and a major influence in the development of ARI's management team," said Holman. 

In his new role, Ortell will assume responsibility for all ARI operations throughout North America and Europe.