Bestop, a leading manufacturer of premium Jeep soft tops and accessories, has announced that industry veteran Chris Fairless has joined the Bestop team as regional sales manager. Based in Southern California, Fairless will be responsible for aftermarket business west of the Rockies, including major warehouse distributor accounts in the region. Fairless’ appointment reflects Bestop’s commitment to strengthening customer relationships and delivering superior customer support.
“This is an exciting time to join Bestop, with new initiatives plus new, innovative products hitting the market,” said Jim Chick, director of sales for Bestop. “Chris brings both depth of experience and broad knowledge to immediately help us and our customers make the most of Bestop’s great opportunities before us.”
With 37 years of experience including retail and wholesale sales, manufacturer representation, e-commerce and manufacturing, Fairless has well-rounded knowledge of the automotive industry. “I’ve been in sales since I was 20 years old,” said Fairless, as he recalls his earliest experience as store manager for Van Iderstine Speed & Auto, a New Jersey Speed Shop.
Prior to joining Bestop, Fairless was sales executive for Hypertech Inc., working directly with key accounts such as Transamerican/4Wheel Parts, Amazon.com, Keystone Automotive, Auto Anything and Premier Distributing. In addition, Fairless is an industry volunteer, serving on several SEMA committees and task forces during the past 24 years. He is currently an Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (LTAA) Select Committee member.
A “car guy” his entire life, Fairless built a 1967 Chevelle frame-off restoration that was displayed at the 2011 SEMA Show.
