RANDYS Worldwide announced the appointment of David Buckley as chief executive officer, effective March 9, 2026. He succeeds Kevin Kaestner, who will retire after leading the company for 18 years. Kaestner will remain involved with RANDYS in an advisory capacity, supporting the company’s ongoing M&A strategy, company officials stated in a press release.
RANDYS Worldwide’s Investment in Market-Leading Brands
Founded in 1982, RANDYS is a national supplier of highly engineered drivetrain, suspension, towing and undercar products for the vehicle aftermarket. The company offers broad vehicle fitment coverage, supporting drivetrain, suspension and towing components across light trucks, pickup trucks, SUVs and CUVs. Through its family of industry-leading brands — including Yukon Gear & Axle, USA Standard Gear, Zumbrota Drivetrain, ICON Vehicle Dynamics, Carli Suspension, Cognito Motorsports, Dynatrac, Van Compass, Adams Drivetrain, North America Powertrain, and BulletProof Hitches — the company serves customers across all major aftermarket channels, noted the release.
Matt Burke, managing director at Greenbriar Equity Group L.P., said, “RANDYS has built an exceptional platform through sustained investment in its market-leading brands, distinctive omnichannel model and talented team. We are grateful for Kevin’s years of leadership and role in positioning the company for continued success. David brings deep industry expertise, a strong track record of operational leadership and a commitment to the values that define RANDYS. We look forward to partnering with him as the company enters its next phase of growth.”
Building on RANDYS Worldwide’s Past Success
“RANDYS Worldwide has built a remarkable 40-plus-year legacy grounded in engineering excellence, strong customer relationships and a genuine passion for the automotive world,” said Buckley. “I am honored to join the company and build on the strength of its brands and its team. I look forward to working closely with Greenbriar, our employees and our customers as we continue to grow the business.”
“It has been a privilege to lead RANDYS through a period of meaningful growth and transformation,” said Kaestner. “Together, we expanded our capabilities, strengthened our brands and positioned the company as a leader in the vehicle aftermarket. I am especially proud of the team and culture we have built. David brings tremendous experience and leadership, and I am confident he will continue advancing the company’s strategy while honoring its legacy.”
Buckley’s Industry Experience
Buckley brings nearly 40 years of leadership experience across manufacturing, distribution and engineering in the automotive, energy, and aerospace and defense sectors. Most recently, he served as chief executive officer of Race Winning Brands and has led a number of successful organizations throughout his career, where he developed a reputation for building strong teams and driving sustained operational and commercial growth, the company said.