After 20 years as president of the Automotive Distribution Network (Network), Mike Lambert has announced his retirement. David Prater has been named interim president, effective May 1.
Prater will serve as interim president until an election is held at the program group’s fall membership meeting. Lambert will remain with the Network in an advisory position until he retires later this year.
“I’m proud of all the accomplishments we have made together as a group,” says Lambert, who joined the Network in 1989 as director of product strategy.
“Shortly after I was named president in 1995, we lost our largest member. Since that time, the Network has seen unprecedented growth nationwide, with 35 members joining the group under my watch over the last two decades.
“This business is all about relationships, and I’m pleased to walk away at this time with many wonderful friendships that will stay with me. There’s no one more qualified than David Prater to assume my role as president.”
Prater started with Parts Plus in 1984 and held several roles with the company before eventually succeeding Lambert as director of product. Prater was promoted to senior vice president in 2010.
“Having worked closely with Mike for so many years, I am very familiar with the challenges that come with the job of Network president,” Prater says. “I want to thank Mike for 26 great years working together to help grow the Network. I plan to continue the successful strategies that have characterized Mike’s term as president and look forward to the future of the Network.”
The Network operates under the brands of Parts Plus, Parts Plus Mexico, IAPA and Auto Pride. For more information, contact Bob Barstow at (901) 682-9090.
