Rihm Family Companies, the second oldest continuously operating family-owned Kenworth dealership in the world, announced Monday the transition of JB Rihm into the role of president and CEO.
Kari Rihm will continue her active leadership role as chairman and dealer principal. The transition follows a long-established family plan that began 15 years ago when Kari assumed the president and CEO role.
Founded in 1932, Rihm Family Companies has remained family owned and operated for more than 94 years. JB represents the fourth generation of Rihm family leadership, which reflects the company’s long-term commitment to its team members, customers, industry partners and communities across Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
“A little over 15 years ago, following the passing of my husband John, I faced two choices, to sell the business or to carry it forward,” says Kari. “I chose to keep and grow the company, honoring the legacy built by the Rihm family since 1932 and preserving the opportunity for future generations to lead it forward.”
Under Kari’s leadership, Rihm Family Companies experienced transformational growth and diversification. From 2010 to 2025, company sales increased by 506%. During this time, the organization expanded from three locations to 15 and added 275 additional team members. Along the way, the company strengthened its operations, expanded its footprint, invested in modern facilities, and added Rihm Leasing to further support long-term growth and evolving customer needs.
[RELATED: Rihm Kenworth wins 2022 Successful Dealer Award]
“It has been an honor and a joy to lead this company through this evolution and to work alongside so many dedicated team members,” Kari says. “And now, new growth is happening again.”
Effective today, JB Rihm assumes responsibility for leading day-to-day operations and guiding the company’s strategic direction as president and CEO.
“Our company was founded by my great grandfather, and I feel a deep responsibility to carry forward the vision that was established 94 years ago,” says JB. “Our industry is changing quickly, and our focus is on leading with purpose, strengthening our systems, and ensuring Rihm continues to be a trusted partner for our team members, our customers, and our industry for decades to come.”
As part of this leadership transition, Rihm Family Companies recently promoted Chad Seth from director of truck sales to vice president. Chad will oversee truck sales, parts, service, and the operations of Rihm Leasing, reporting directly to JB. Seth brings more than 25 years of experience at Rihm and will work closely alongside JB to execute the company’s forward-looking strategy.
Together, JB Rihm and Seth and the broader leadership team are focused on driving growth, strengthening culture, improving alignment, and continuing to deliver exceptional service for customers, partners, and suppliers across the region and worldwide through Rihm Global Sales.
The company adds Kari will remain actively involved in the business, focusing on strategic initiatives, key relationships, and continued service within the community and the trucking industry.
“Rihm Family Companies remains family owned and family operated,” Kari says. “This transition is not a step back from my involvement, but a step forward that strengthens our leadership team and positions the company for long term success.”
Rihm Family Companies extends its appreciation to its team members, customers, suppliers, vendors, and the communities who have contributed to the company’s success across generations. The organization looks forward to building its next chapter with the same values that have guided it from the beginning.
