U.S. Auto Parts Network Inc., one of the largest online providers of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories, has appointed Mehran Nia to its board of directors, effective May 31. His appointment expands the board to eight members and fills an open vacancy.

As one of the original co-founders, Nia returns to U.S. Auto Parts, where he previously served as CEO, president and director from 1995 until 2007. During the first five years of his tenure, Nia helped lead the transformation of the company from a regional wholesaler of collision auto parts into an e-commerce retailer and wholesaler with a diversified base of automotive products.

“Mehran brings extensive e-commerce expertise and broad leadership experience to our board,” said Aaron Coleman, CEO of U.S. Auto Parts. “His founding role and prior service as president and CEO will provide invaluable insight to our company as we continue to deploy web development initiatives across our core e-commerce sites and expand our relationships with marketplace partners.”

Nia currently serves on the board of directors for Mylife.com, an e-commerce company helping people connect with others and manage information. He also serves on the advisory board for ARC China, a private equity investment firm specializing in pre-IPO investments. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from San Diego State University.

Nia commented, “U.S. Auto Parts has built a strong e-commerce platform that has significant opportunity for long-term growth. I plan to leverage my prior experience to provide strategic input to the company as we continue to enhance the customer experience across our core e-commerce sites and expand our marketplace channels.”