After 16 years as president and COO of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association, Tim Kraus has decided to step down at the end of February 2021. An active search is currently underway for his successor.   

Kraus began his career with the Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association as the executive director of HDMA in 2004, but his relationship first began in the 1980s as a member, then while serving on the board of HDMA from 1992 through 2002, as well as its board chairman.

Kraus was also heavily involved in the initial development of HD Aftermarket Week, which held its first event in 2006. Over the years, he took on increasing responsibilities, including being elected as a vice president of HDMA’s parent organization, MEMA, and being named president and COO of HDMA in 2008.

Kraus started his career in the industry as an owner of two service stations in the early 1970s, then as a distributor salesperson for a brake and friction distributor, Auto Machine and Supply. He joined McCord Gaskets in 1976 as a district sales manager, later joining Phillips and Temro Industries as National Sales Manager in 1983. He then starting working for Triseal Corporation as general manager of product and distribution in 1999.

Kraus and his wife, as well as his six children and three grandchildren, are looking forward to spending more time together when he retires next year.