Glen Villano will step down as chief executive officer of Merchants Fleet Management after leading the Hooksett, New Hampshire-based fleet management company for more than 5 years.

Merchants has named Brendan Keegan as its interim chief executive officer. Keegan will begin guiding the organization on Sept. 30, when Villano departs. Villano first joined the company in 2008.

"Glen has served Merchants well for the past 9 years and we would not be where we are without him," said Gary Singer, board chairman. "Brendan is an exceptional leader who I have known for many years. I am confident he will lead and guide Merchants as we continue to invest in the organization and provide best-in-class service to our customers."

Villano has been leading Merchants since his appointment in February of 2012 to the top job. He joined Merchants in May of 2008 as chief operating officer.

Keegan has been serving as an advisor to the company's board of directors and providing strategic guidance about the long-term growth strategy for Merchants. He served as CEO of a Merchants customer about a decade ago.