PORTLAND, Ore. — Western Star boss Michael Jackson is retiring March 31.

The general manager of Western Star Truck Sales has held that position since 2009, and has spent 10 with the company in various other roles.

“The Western Star is a brand on the rise, and that is a tribute to the people who have dedicated themselves to providing a superior truck to our customers. I take great pride in being a part of Western Star’s success,” said Jackson. “Working for Daimler Trucks North America has been an important part of my life, professionally and personally. I am pleased to retire and leave the Western Star brand in the capable hands of my successor Kelley Platt.”

“Michael has been instrumental to the success of the Western Star brand,” added Martin Daum, president and CEO, Daimler Trucks North America. “We wish Michael the very best in his future endeavors and we have the utmost confidence in Kelley Platt and her ability to keep Western Star’s momentum going.”

Platt takes over the position April 1. She has been with DTNA since 1989, most recently serving as president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses.

“Kelley has distinguished herself through her exceptional leadership of Thomas Built Buses and their present undisputed market leadership,” said Daum. “Her decisive leadership skills and depth of experience across the Daimler Trucks North America organization positions her well for success at Western Star.”

“I am excited by the opportunity to lead Western Star and look forward to exceeding each and every customers’ expectations,” said Platt. “The Western Star team is passionate about everything they do and it is my pledge to continue to inspire them to deliver the industry’s most innovative, tough-as-nails trucks that is synonymous with Western Star.”