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Forest River CEO David Wright is set to retire
Forest River recently announced that Co-CEO David Wright will be retiring in April. Wright had led the Bus & Van division with dedication and leadership for 22 years, building it into the country’s leading manufacturer of buses and vans for both the private and public sectors, before assuming the role of Co-CEO with Doug Gaeddert.
Wright’s decision to retire is deeply personal, following the recent passing of his longtime friend, mentor, and Forest River founder, Pete Liegl. Having executed the near-term transitional strategy, he determined the timing is right to step away from the day-to-day responsibilities.
“It has been the greatest honor of my career to be part of this incredible company and to work alongside the most talented and selfless team in the industry,” said Wright. “Forest River’s leadership remains exceptionally strong, with a deep bench of individuals who are more than qualified to continue driving our success. The foundation we’ve built ensures that Forest River’s legacy will only grow stronger.”
Forest River CEO Doug Gaeddert
Wright’s departure marks the next evolution for Forest River’s senior management team since the passing of Pete Liegl in November 2024. Additional updates include:
- Gaeddert, who previously led the Recreational Vehicle division for more than 25 years, assumes the role of sole CEO.
- Darrel Ritchie, who started with Forest River in 2002, continues in his role as CFO.
- Douglas Wright, previously the general manager, bus & van, moves to the role of group general manager, reporting to Doug Gaeddert. Gaeddert brings experience, operational expertise, and a tremendous familiarity with all aspects of the organization.
“I’m sad to see my good friend and uniquely gifted colleague David Wright retire, but I certainly understand and respect his decision,” said Gaeddert. “Working alongside Pete together like we did for all those years, and accomplishing so much in that time has been an incredible experience. I’m grateful for what David built, including the strong management team that he leaves in place.”
Forest River extends its deepest gratitude to Wright for his years of dedicated service and contributions to the company’s success. While he will be greatly missed on a daily basis, his impact on Forest River’s culture and operations will endure for years to come.
Visit forestriverinc.com for more information.
[03.25.25]
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Boston Chauffeur Founder & CEO Mark Kini (left) shakes hands with MCI’s Allen Keith in front of the company’s new J4500 motorcoach.
Motor Coach Industries (MCI) has announced the delivery of a new, premium MCI J4500 motorcoach to Boston Chauffeur, a premier black car and limousine service based in Massachusetts founded by Mark Kini.
This delivery marks Boston Chauffeur’s second MCI coach purchase, signaling the company’s confidence in the growing demand for motorcoach services alongside its established luxury transportation offerings. The newly acquired coach, which MCI showcased at the recent CD/NLA Show in Las Vegas, is a fully customized, deluxe J4500. This coach is designed to provide an unparalleled travel experience for the company’s high-end clients, including corporate groups, wedding parties, and private charters.
“We started out with humble roots in the limousine industry, so transitioning to adding full size coach buses was a major decision,” said Boston Chauffeur CEO Mark Kini. “I am extremely happy we chose MCI, as the whole team has been true professionals.”
The new J4500 is the most luxurious version of MCI’s best-selling coach lineup, featuring:
- Exclusive premium seating for a sophisticated interior finish
- 360-degree exterior camera system for enhanced safety
- Interior recording camera for passenger security
- Bendix Wingman collision mitigation system for advanced driver assistance
- RGB ambient lighting for a fully customizable atmosphere
- Enhanced REI speaker system for superior onboard entertainment
- Rear window for a sleek, modern aesthetic
“We are proud to be part of Boston Chauffeur’s growth, who made their first coach purchase just one year ago,” said MCI Vice President, Private Market Sales & Marketing Brent Maitland. “We met Mark at the CD/NLA Show and were able to demonstrate how Team MCI supports customers every step of the way. From purchasing the coach, to providing training and orientation to their team, to technical support after the sale, we want to make sure our customers are successful.”
Expanding into motorcoach service presents both opportunities and challenges for limousine operators. Companies that master fleet diversification stand to gain a significant competitive advantage by offering a broader range of services. MCI provides the comprehensive support—including technical assistance, training, and service resources—that helps companies like Boston Chauffeur navigate the transition seamlessly.
Visit mcicoach.com for more information.
[03.25.25]
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L to R: PRLA Vice President Bob Euler Jr. of King Limousine, Director Anthony Clinton of Dav El/Boston Coach, Treasurer Claribel Ortiz of Trophy Limousine, Director Briana Candeub of Park Avenue Worldwide, President Tracy Salinger of Unique Chauffeured Services, Vendor Director John Arone of Acrisure, and Secretary Ryan Shaer of Ace Limousine & Airport Service
It was a packed house when the Philadelphia Regional Limousine Association (PRLA) returned to Maggiano’s in King of Prussia, Pa., on March 12, for their spring dinner meeting. Sixty members and guests attended the event, which was once again sponsored by long-time supporter Fred Beans Ford Livery. In addition to offering news and educational content, the meeting saw the announcement of two new directors on the PRLA board: Anthony Clinton of Dav El/BostonCoach and Brianna Candeub of Park Avenue Worldwide.
“They’re absolutely a welcome addition to the board,” says PRLA President Tracy Salinger of Unique Chauffeured Services. “The energy at the meeting was great. I got a lot of positive feedback that it was a really good evening. I’d like to see 60-75 people be a regular meeting for us.”
The PRLA spring dinner meeting hosted 60 members and guests
In addition to a guest speaker—leadership expert Ana Welsh—the meeting provided some association and regional updates for the attendees. Notably the PRLA board is in the final stages of reviewing their by-laws; an updated set will be voted on during the association’s summer meeting. Also, it was reported that the Philadelphia International Airport’s parking areas are now cash-free and will require a credit card. Salinger and board members also discussed the importance of cross-attending regional association meetings. In recent months, the PRLA and its membership have made a concentrated effort to take part in association meetings in New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia.
Maryland Limousine Association President Len Joseph of On The Town Limousines and PRLA President Tracy Salinger of Unique Chauffeured Services
Leadership expert Ana Walsh
“As a proud board member, it’s fulfilling to support our industry and foster growth through our monthly calls and initiatives. The work we do strengthens the livery ground transportation community, and I’m grateful to be part of it,” says PRLA Secretary Ryan Shaer of Ace Limousine & Airport Service.
Next, Walsh offered operators methods to increase effective leadership and strategies to reduce turnover. Walsh also discussed how leadership is built during in-between times, and that verbal communication is only 7% words; vocal inflection/non-verbal cues are much more important.
“She had some great nuggets,” states Salinger. “I especially appreciated her manner of giving feedback to employees: ‘I’m giving you these comments because I have very high expectations and I’m confident that you can reach them.’”
Visit prlainc.org for more information.
[03.24.25]