Great Dane Trailers on Friday, Oct. 14, announced that Jim Pines, executive vice president of sales and operations, will step down from his role at the end of 2011 in order to devote his full attention to personal and family business concerns. Pines’ announcement comes in the wake of the tragic accident that took the life of his father, the founder of Pines Trailers and longtime chief operating officer of Great Dane, Phill Pines.
“I was saddened by Jim’s decision to leave Great Dane,” says Bill Crown, president and chief executive officer. “Our families have been partners for 25 years, and as I told Jim, Great Dane will not be the same company in his absence. That said, all of us at Great Dane respect and support the tough decisions Jim needs to make at this difficult time.”
Pines’ responsibilities will be taken on by other members of the Great Dane executive team. Dean Engelage, executive vice president of strategic planning, will assume responsibility for the sales organization, and Rick Mullininx, executive vice president of engineering, will oversee the warranty and quality departments. In addition, Sam Gupta has been promoted to executive vice president of manufacturing.
“This company has been a huge part of my life for 25 years, and it will be difficult to step down, but I now have other priorities that require my full attention,” says Jim Pines. “I will always feel deeply connected to the employees, the customers and the business of Great Dane Trailers. I have enjoyed being a part of building this organization, and I am confident that I leave it in good hands.”
