Spartan Motors president and CEO to retire

CHARLOTTE – Spartan Motors Inc. will have a new leader at the helm in February.

The Charlotte-based specialty vehicle and chassis maker said today that John Sztykiel, its current president and CEO, will retire as of Feb. 19. Sztykiel, 57, will remain on Spartan Motors’ board until his term ends in May and stay on as a consultant through Aug. 31, 2016.

Daryl Adams, Spartan’s current chief operating officer, will replace him.

Sztykiel joined Spartan Motors in 1985. He became president in 1991 and CEO in 2002, the company said. Adams, 52, has been Spartan Motors’ chief operating officer since August. He previously worked as CEO of Monroe-based auto supplier Midway Products Group Inc. and held multiple management roles with Southfield-based supplier Lear Corp.

“The time is now right to ensure a smooth transition,” Sztykiel said in a statement. “I am proud of Spartan’s achievements and feel honored to have been part of creating a unique culture that blends a creative entrepreneurial spirit with disciplined operations centered on a passion for the customer.”

Spartan Motors makes a variety of chassis and specialty vehicles, including delivery vans and fire trucks.