The Miller family has led Newmar Corp. since Mahlon Miller gave up his role as Holiday Rambler president to buy the motorhome manufacturer in 1984.
The family’s leadership will end next when when Mahlon Miller’s son, Matt Miller, retires as company president.
Winnebago Industries disclosed Miller’s retirement plans, effective Sept. 3. He has been with the manufacturer since 1991, taking over as president in 2006.
Miller will continue as a strategic advisor, Winnebago said, while Winnebago Senior Vice President Brian Hazelton will step in as Newmar president.
“We would like to thank Matt for his incredible leadership at Newmar and for being a valued member of the Winnebago Industries executive leadership team,” Winnebago President and CEO Michael Happe said. “Matt’s contributions are reflected in his ability to drive an engaged and healthy employee culture resulting in Newmar’s Class A diesel market share growth and an unmatched reputation for building high-quality, premium RVs. His involvement in RV Industry Association efforts is reflective of his commitment to drive quality, innovation and service inside Newmar and the RV industry.”
Hazelton will assume the president’s role effective Friday. Winnebago said the existing Newmar leadership team will continue fully intact. A five-year Winnebago veteran, the company said Hazelton helped guide the Winnebago motorhome business through new product development efforts, building strong dealer relationships and driving service excellence.
“Brian’s proven motorhome experience, familiarity with the RV industry and commitment to serving dealers and retail customers will prove invaluable as we continue to grow the legacy of building high-quality Newmar products,” Happe said. “We look forward to the contributions Brian and the entire Newmar leadership team will drive in the years to come.”
While at Newmar, Miller was fundamental in guiding the company forward through dynamic times developing a strong culture committed to continuous improvement, craftsmanship, and overall excellence. He served on the RVIA board of directors and was instrumental in developing the RV Technical Institute, previously serving as chairman of the organization.
RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby noted Miller’s work on behalf of the industry during his career.
“Matt always made time for association projects and staff and remains passionate about the organization and the RV industry,” Kirby said. “We are all better off personally and professionally because of the contributions made by Matt and we wish him and his family all the best in their future endeavors.”
Kirby said Miller has been a tremendous leader in the RV industry, dedicating his time and expertise on the RVIA board and Executive Committee.
“His strong commitment to customer service, product quality, and elevating service is evident in his work as the head of Newmar and through his involvement in the development of the RV Technical Institute,” Kirby said. “In recognition of his service to the industry, Matt was awarded the 2014 Distinguished Service to the RV Industry Award as well as the 2018 Distinguished Achievement in RV Standards Award.”
Kirby noted other roles Miller held with RVIA over the years, including secretary and treasurer on the Executive Committee and chairman of the Standards Steering Committee, Nominating Committee and Strategic Planning Committee. Miller also served as a member of the Audit Committee, RVDA/RVIA Certification Governing Board, Public Relations Committee, Awards Committee and Governance Committee.
