DENVER, Colo. – Gates Corp. has announced that Steve Connolly, vice president, Gates Brand, representing the automotive heavy duty and adjacent market channels, has announced his retirement effective Dec. 31.

Connolly began his career with Gates in 1973 in the Product Control Division. After several successful years, he accepted an assignment in Profit Center Control. In 1977, Connolly transitioned into a sales position within the Gates Hardware Division. His career with Gates included various sales management positions in the aftermarket division, including his appointment as vice president, Gates Brand, in January 2001.

Throughout his career, Connolly was recognized for his many contributions in the industry. He has served on numerous aftermarket councils, associations and boards, including the Manufacturers Advisory Council for the Automotive Warehouse Distributor’s Association (AWDA), Board of Automotive Sales Council, Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) Marketing Committee and the Board of Free-Cat.

Todd Hack has been named to succeed Connolly as vice president – Aftermarket Gates Brand effective Jan. 1, 2010. Hack assumes responsibility for sales of Gates products to a broad aftermarket customer base, including the special markets and Gates’ private brand ACDelco aftermarket program.

Hack served previously as president of CARQUEST Corp. and senior vice president of marketing for General Parts/CARQUEST. During his 19-year career with CARQUEST, Hack managed a CARQUEST Auto Parts Store and also worked in sales and distribution. In 1992, he moved to CARQUEST Corp., where he served as marketing coordinator and held the positions of product manager, director of product marketing and vice president. In 2001, Hack was named executive vice president CARQUEST Headquarters and vice president, marketing, General Parts Inc. He also serves on the Board of Governors for the Automotive Warehouse Distributor’s Association (AWDA).

Hack will relocate to Denver from Raleigh, N.C.