Tom O’Hare, the retired former president and CEO of Worldpac, will serve as the opening speaker for the next University of the Aftermarket Leadership 2.0 program.
“Tom O’Hare is one example of the kinds of high-caliber aftermarket leaders and leadership concepts that participants will be exposed to during the Leadership 2.0 program,” University of the Aftermarket Director Brian Cruickshank says. “We are thrilled that Tom will speak about his view on leadership within a changing motor vehicle aftermarket.”
O’Hare will address the 2014-2015 Leadership 2.0 class at its opening dinner on Aug. 24 at Northwood University in Midland, Mich. During his presentation, he will discuss his career, the industry and his personal philosophy on leadership in the motor vehicle aftermarket.
Born and raised in Boston, O’Hare’s first job was selling hot dogs, soda and ice cream in the center field bleachers of Fenway Park. Like many kids growing up in the late 1940s and 50s, he juggled several jobs, such as cutting grass, caddying, serving as a soda jerk in a drug store, delivering newspapers, and more. He graduated from Boston College and joined the Marine Corps as a 2nd lieutenant.
After serving in the Marines, O’Hare attended Tufts University, earning a master’s degree in economics. He subsequently interned at the Federal Reserve in Boston before starting his own business. In 1995, the automotive aftermarket trailblazer became the president and CEO of an auto parts company, which ultimately became Worldpac. O’Hare was elected to the Automotive International Association (AIA) Hall of Fame in 2007 and is a current member of the Worldpac Board. Northwood University honored Tom as an Outstanding Business Leader in 2014.
In May, the University of the Aftermarket officially opened registration for its next class, which begins August 24-29 on Northwood University’s Midland campus. The second session will be held March 8-13, 2015, at Northwood University’s West Palm Beach, Florida, campus. Participants must attend both sessions.
The Leadership 2.0 program is designed for early- to mid-career, management-track, high-potential aftermarket professionals in all market segments. Program participants include a mix of aftermarket professionals from manufacturing, retail/wholesale stores, program groups, warehouses, service dealers, associations and other industry segments allied to the motor vehicle aftermarket. This collaborative mix of industry levels is unique in the industry and adds to the educational experience.
Class size is limited to 35; those interested are encouraged to register early, as the class sells out every year. First-come, first-served registration will close no later than the end of July.
